Hemidesmosomes, connection

Intermediate filament associated proteins (IFAPs) coordinate interactions between intermediate filaments (IFs) and other cytoskeletal elements and organelles, including membrane-associated junctions such as desmosomes and hemidesmosomes in epithelial cells, costameres in striated muscle, and intercalated discs in cardiac muscle. IFAPs thus serve as critical connecting links in the IF scaffolding that organizes the cytoplasm and confers mechanical stability to cells and tissues. However, in recent years it has become apparent that IFAPs are not limited to structural... 

Cell-surface adhesion receptors (e.g., a6p4 integrin in hemidesmosomes) anchor cells to the basal lamina, which in turn is connected to other ECM components (see Figure 6-1). 

---