Adhesion molecules in inflammatory diseases.
Cell adhesion molecules (CAM) have a key role in the inflammatory response. Selectins, integrins and immunoglobulin (Ig) gene superfamily adhesion receptors mediate the different steps of the migration of leucocytes from the blood-stream towards inflammatory foci. The activation of endothelial cells (EC) upregulates the expression of several CAM and triggers the interaction of these cells with leucocytes. Selectins are involved in the initial interactions (tethering/rolling) of leucocytes with activated endothelium, whereas integrins and Ig superfamily CAM mediate the firm adhesion of these cells and their subsequent extravasation. During rolling, leucocytes are activated through the intracellular signals generated by CAM and chemokine receptors. Blockade of the function or expression of CAM has emerged as a new therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases. Different drugs are able to interfere with cell adhesion phenomena. In addition, new antiadhesion therapeutic approaches (blocking monoclonal antibodies, soluble receptors, synthetic peptides, peptidomimetics, etc.) are currently in development.
González-Amaro
R
R
Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain.
Díaz-González
F
F
Sánchez-Madrid
F
F
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000502:physiology; D019707:Receptors, Chemokine / Q000378:metabolism; D015854:Up-Regulation
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules; D019707:Receptors, Chemokine