regulation of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that modulates the frequency, rate or extent of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion. [GO_REF:0000058, GOC:BHF, GOC:rl, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:21106532]

Leukocyte cell-cell adhesion is a complex process that is tightly regulated by a variety of mechanisms. This process is essential for the proper function of the immune system, as it allows leukocytes to migrate to sites of inflammation and infection, where they can carry out their immune functions.

The regulation of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion is controlled by a delicate balance of factors, including:

1. **Expression and activation of adhesion molecules:** Leukocytes express a variety of adhesion molecules on their surface, including selectins, integrins, and immunoglobulin superfamily members. These molecules bind to complementary ligands on endothelial cells and other leukocytes, facilitating cell-cell interactions. The expression and activation of these molecules are tightly regulated, ensuring that leukocytes only adhere to the appropriate cells at the appropriate time.

2. **Chemokines and cytokines:** These soluble mediators play a crucial role in regulating leukocyte adhesion. Chemokines attract leukocytes to specific locations, while cytokines promote the expression and activation of adhesion molecules. This coordinated action helps to direct leukocytes to sites of inflammation and infection.

3. **Mechanical forces:** The physical forces experienced by leukocytes, such as shear stress from blood flow, also influence adhesion. For example, high shear stress can promote the activation of integrins, increasing their affinity for their ligands and enhancing adhesion.

4. **Cellular signaling pathways:** Complex signaling pathways within leukocytes regulate adhesion molecule expression, activation, and interaction. These pathways are activated by a variety of stimuli, including chemokines, cytokines, and mechanical forces. They involve a cascade of intracellular signaling events that ultimately lead to changes in adhesion molecule expression and function.

5. **Regulation of adhesion molecule expression and function:** The expression and function of adhesion molecules can be tightly regulated through a variety of mechanisms, including:

* **Transcriptional regulation:** The expression of adhesion molecule genes can be regulated at the transcriptional level by various transcription factors.
* **Post-translational modification:** Adhesion molecules can undergo post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation and glycosylation, which can alter their function.
* **Shedding:** Some adhesion molecules can be shed from the cell surface, effectively reducing their ability to mediate adhesion.

6. **Regulation of adhesion molecule clustering:** The clustering of adhesion molecules on the cell surface is important for strengthening cell-cell interactions. This clustering can be regulated by a variety of mechanisms, including:

* **Ligand binding:** Binding to their ligands can induce clustering of adhesion molecules.
* **Cytoskeletal interactions:** Adhesion molecules can interact with the cytoskeleton, which helps to stabilize and promote their clustering.

In summary, the regulation of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion is a complex and tightly controlled process involving a variety of mechanisms. This regulation is essential for the proper function of the immune system, allowing leukocytes to migrate to sites of inflammation and infection and carry out their immune functions.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (12)