cell-cell recognition

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Cell recognition between cells. May involve the formation of specialized cell junctions. [ISBN:0824072820]

Cell-cell recognition is a fundamental biological process that enables cells to interact with each other in a specific and regulated manner. It is essential for a wide range of developmental and physiological processes, including tissue formation, immune responses, and neuronal communication. This complex process involves a series of molecular interactions between specialized cell surface molecules, known as cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). These CAMs can be classified into several families based on their structure and function, including cadherins, integrins, selectins, and immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) molecules.

The initiation of cell-cell recognition often involves the binding of CAMs on one cell to their complementary ligands on another cell. These interactions can be influenced by factors such as cell type, developmental stage, and the presence of specific extracellular matrix molecules. Once binding occurs, it can trigger a cascade of intracellular signaling events that lead to changes in cell behavior, such as adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation.

Cadherins are calcium-dependent transmembrane proteins that play a crucial role in cell-cell adhesion. They are involved in the formation of adherens junctions, which are specialized cell-cell junctions that provide structural integrity to tissues. Cadherins bind to each other in a homophilic manner, meaning that they interact with the same type of molecule on adjacent cells.

Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane proteins that mediate interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix. They are involved in cell adhesion, migration, and signaling. Integrins bind to a variety of extracellular matrix molecules, including collagen, fibronectin, and laminin.

Selectins are a family of transmembrane proteins that mediate cell-cell interactions in the immune system. They are involved in the recruitment of leukocytes to sites of inflammation. Selectins bind to specific carbohydrate ligands on the surface of other cells.

IgSF molecules are a large and diverse family of transmembrane proteins that mediate a wide range of cell-cell interactions. They are involved in immune recognition, neuronal communication, and cell adhesion. IgSF molecules typically bind to their ligands in a heterophilic manner, meaning that they interact with different types of molecules on adjacent cells.

The process of cell-cell recognition is highly dynamic and can be regulated by a variety of factors, including the expression levels of CAMs, the presence of specific ligands, and the activity of intracellular signaling pathways. Dysregulation of cell-cell recognition can lead to a number of diseases, including cancer, developmental defects, and autoimmune disorders.

In summary, cell-cell recognition is a crucial biological process that involves complex molecular interactions between specialized cell surface molecules. It is essential for a wide range of physiological and developmental processes and is tightly regulated by a variety of factors.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (5)