PECAM-1 (CD31) cloning and relation to adhesion molecules of the immunoglobulin gene superfamily

Article Abstract:

Platelets are small blood cells that are essential for blood clotting. They exhibit proteins on their surfaces (membrane proteins) that help determine certain characteristics of the platelet, such as how it interacts with other cells. Some of these proteins appear identical to those located on other types of cells, suggesting that the cells share similar functions. One cell with membrane proteins similar to the platelet's is the endothelial cell, an epithelial cell type that lines many cavities of the body. One such protein, PECAM-1 (platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1), appears structurally similar to immunoglobulins (Igs) and related proteins (the Ig superfamily), many of which are important in the immune response. PECAM-1's structure was determined to be most similar to that of the subgroup of Ig superfamily molecules known as cell adhesion molecules (CAM). The results suggest that the newly discovered molecule could play a role in initiating events that lead to formation of a clot. In addition, since some molecules that are close relatives of Ig molecules are targets, or receptors, for viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) receptors, it is possible that PECAM-1 is a site to which invading viruses attach, leading to infection of platelets or endothelial cells. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Epithelial cells, Cell adhesion, Blood platelets

---

E-cadherin: a distant member of the immunoglobulin superfamily

Article Abstract:

Recent observations on the three-dimensional structure of a cadherin adhesion domain shed new light on the structure of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) and receptor molecules. The structure of the cadherin adhesion domain reveals a dominance of the Ig structural motif among CAMs.

Observations, Cell adhesion molecules

---

CD2: an exception to the immunoglobulin superfamily concept?

Article Abstract:

It has been proposed that the stable conformations of some immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) domains are maintained by the dynamic interactions between the polypeptide and its attached glycan conflicts. This idea is examined further because it conflicts with the IgSF concept.

Lymphocytes

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Who owns the past? Zeroing in on how hormones affect the immune system. Attacking the causes of "silent" infertility
• Abstracts: Aqueous chlorination kinetics and mechanism of substituted dihydroxybenzenes. Colloid deposition rates on silica bed media and artifacts related to collector surface preparation methods
• Abstracts: Asia and Europe top in world but reasons are hard to find: school achievement. Early start for plant-insect dance
• Abstracts: DOE gives $47 million for core research. Synergy paper questioned at toxicology meeting. Green grass, cool climate?

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.