Plasmodesmata in plant cells are most similar in function to which of the following structures in animal cells?

A. tight junctions

B. desmosomes

C. peroxisomes

D. extracellular matrix

E. gap junctions

E

Explanation:

Gap junctions in animals, like plasmodesmata in plants, connect the cytoplasm of two cells through dedicated and regulated channels. A gap junction is made of two hemichannels connected together leaving a channel that is 2-4 nm across - tranversing the two cells' cell membranes. The gap junctions allow for the cells to signal each other through allowing exchange of ions and other moelcules. One significance of gap junction is in enhancing communication between cells in the development of tissues and embryo.