cell adhesion

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The attachment of a cell, either to another cell or to an underlying substrate such as the extracellular matrix, via cell adhesion molecules. [GOC:hb, GOC:pf]

Cell adhesion is a fundamental biological process that enables cells to interact with each other and with their surrounding environment. It plays a crucial role in a wide range of biological processes, including tissue development, morphogenesis, immune responses, and wound healing. Cell adhesion involves the formation of specialized junctions between cells, as well as interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM), a network of proteins and polysaccharides that surrounds cells. There are two main types of cell adhesion: cell-cell adhesion and cell-matrix adhesion.

Cell-cell adhesion is mediated by specialized cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), which are transmembrane proteins that project from the cell surface and interact with complementary CAMs on adjacent cells. CAMs can be classified into four major families: cadherins, integrins, immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) CAMs, and selectins. Cadherins are calcium-dependent adhesion molecules that play a major role in cell-cell adhesion in epithelial, mesenchymal, and neuronal tissues. Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane proteins that bind to both ECM components and intracellular signaling molecules, linking cells to the ECM and influencing cell behavior. IgSF CAMs are a diverse family of CAMs that participate in a wide range of cell-cell interactions, including immune responses, nervous system development, and cell-cell recognition. Selectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins that mediate transient interactions between cells, particularly in the immune system, where they are involved in leukocyte recruitment to sites of inflammation.

Cell-matrix adhesion is mediated by integrins, which bind to ECM components such as collagen, laminin, and fibronectin. Integrins interact with intracellular signaling molecules, such as the actin cytoskeleton, to transmit signals that influence cell behavior, including cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation.

The process of cell adhesion is highly regulated and dynamic, influenced by a variety of factors, including:

* **Cell type:** Different cell types express different CAMs and integrins, resulting in specific adhesion patterns.
* **ECM composition:** The composition of the ECM influences the binding of integrins and thereby regulates cell adhesion.
* **Extracellular signals:** Growth factors, cytokines, and other extracellular signals can modulate the expression and activity of CAMs and integrins.
* **Intracellular signaling pathways:** Cell adhesion triggers intracellular signaling pathways that regulate gene expression and cell behavior.

Dysregulation of cell adhesion can contribute to a wide range of diseases, including cancer, inflammation, and developmental defects. For example, cancer cells often exhibit reduced cell adhesion, enabling them to metastasize to distant sites. Conversely, excessive cell adhesion can contribute to the development of fibrotic diseases.

In summary, cell adhesion is a complex and essential biological process that involves a variety of molecules and signaling pathways. It plays a critical role in tissue development, morphogenesis, and other essential biological functions. Understanding the mechanisms of cell adhesion is crucial for developing new therapies for a wide range of diseases.'
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Proteins (82)

Compounds (2,207)