Plasmodesmata are the microscopic channels that connect the cytoplasm of neighboring plant cells. These channels are responsible for allowing the transfer of water, nutrients, and even genetic material between cells. There are several synonyms for this term, including - the plasmodesmata, cytoplasmic bridges, intercellular bridges, and communication channels. Regardless of the name used, the role of these channels remains the same. Interestingly, plasmodesmata are not strictly unique to plant cells. Similar structures exist in some animal cells, but they are not as prevalent or as efficient as plasmodesmata in plant cells.