Cell adhesion molecule

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Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are a class of cell surface proteins that mediate the binding of cells to other cells or to the extracellular matrix (ECM) through a process known as cell adhesion. These molecules are essential for maintaining tissue structure and function, enabling communication between cells, and supporting critical biological processes such as growth, differentiation, contact inhibition, and apoptosis. CAMs also play a role in mechanotransduction, ensuring the ability of organs to function properly by generating force and movement.

Beyond their structural roles, CAMs are involved in cellular signaling and immune responses. Abnormal expression of CAMs has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and neurological diseases.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Most CAMs are single-pass transmembrane receptors composed of three primary domains:

  • Intracellular domain – Interacts with the cytoskeleton and intracellular signaling pathways.
  • Transmembrane domain – Anchors the molecule within the plasma membrane.
  • Extracellular domain – Facilitates binding with other CAMs or ECM components.

CAMs can engage in two types of binding interactions:

  • Homophilic binding – CAMs bind to identical CAMs on adjacent cells.
  • Heterophilic binding – CAMs bind to different CAM types on adjacent cells.

Functions[edit | edit source]

Cell adhesion molecules serve multiple critical functions:

Families of CAMs[edit | edit source]

CAMs are classified into several superfamilies based on their structural properties and binding mechanisms:

Immunoglobulin Superfamily Cell Adhesion Molecules (IgCAMs)[edit | edit source]

Cadherins[edit | edit source]

  • Calcium-dependent adhesion molecules that mediate cell-cell adhesion.
  • They play a critical role in maintaining tissue integrity, embryonic development, and cell differentiation.
  • Examples: E-cadherin, N-cadherin, P-cadherin.

Integrins[edit | edit source]

  • Transmembrane receptors that mediate cell-ECM interactions as well as some cell-cell interactions.
  • Integrins consist of α and β subunits that form heterodimers.
  • They regulate cell migration, survival, and signaling.
  • Examples: α5β1 integrin, αvβ3 integrin.

Selectins[edit | edit source]

  • Calcium-dependent adhesion molecules that mediate cell-cell interactions, particularly in the vascular system and immune response.
  • They are primarily expressed on endothelial cells, leukocytes, and platelets.
  • Examples: L-selectin, E-selectin, P-selectin.

C-Type Lectin-Like Domain Proteins (CTLDs)[edit | edit source]

  • These CAMs contain C-type lectin domains that mediate cell-cell adhesion.
  • They play roles in immune system function and pathogen recognition.
  • Examples: Dectin-1, DC-SIGN.

Proteoglycans[edit | edit source]

  • Though not traditionally classified as CAMs, proteoglycans interact with other CAMs and ECM components.
  • Examples: Syndecans, Glypicans.

Classification Based on Calcium Dependence[edit | edit source]

CAMs can also be categorized based on their dependence on calcium ions (Ca²⁺):

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormal expression or dysfunction of CAMs is associated with multiple diseases:

Related pages[edit | edit source]

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