Cell adhesion molecule

This article is about cell adhesion molecules. For the role of CAMs in the formation and stabilization of neural synapses, see Synaptic stabilization.

Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are a subset of cell surface proteins[1] that are involved in the binding of cells with other cells or with the extracellular matrix (ECM), in a process called cell adhesion.[2] In essence, CAMs help cells stick to each other and to their surroundings. CAMs are crucial components in maintaining tissue structure and function. In fully developed animals, these molecules play an integral role in generating force and movement and consequently ensuring that organs are able to execute their functions normally.[3] In addition to serving as "molecular glue", CAMs play important roles in the cellular mechanisms of growth, contact inhibition, and apoptosis. Aberrant expression of CAMs may result in a wide range of pathologies, ranging from frostbite to cancer.[4]

  1. ^ Cell+Adhesion+Molecules at the U.S. National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
  2. ^ Chothia, C.; Jones, E. Y. (1997). "The molecular structure of cell adhesion molecules". Annual Review of Biochemistry. 66: 823–862. doi:10.1146/annurev.biochem.66.1.823. ISSN 0066-4154. PMID 9242926.
  3. ^ Gumbiner, B. M. (1996-02-09). "Cell adhesion: the molecular basis of tissue architecture and morphogenesis". Cell. 84 (3): 345–357. doi:10.1016/s0092-8674(00)81279-9. ISSN 0092-8674. PMID 8608588.
  4. ^ Korthuis RJ, Anderson DC, Granger DN (March 1994). "Role of neutrophil-endothelial cell adhesion in inflammatory disorders". J Crit Care. 9 (1): 47–71. doi:10.1016/0883-9441(94)90032-9. ISSN 0883-9441. PMID 8199653.