Immunzelladhäsion

Immunzelladhäsion refers to the process by which immune cells, such as lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils, attach to other cells or to the extracellular matrix. This adhesion is crucial for a variety of immune functions, including cell trafficking, immune surveillance, and the effector phase of an immune response. It is mediated by specific molecules on the surface of immune cells called adhesion molecules, which interact with complementary molecules on target cells or the surrounding tissue.

Key classes of adhesion molecules involved in immunzelladhäsion include selectins, integrins, and the immunoglobulin superfamily. Selectins, like L-selectin and P-selectin, are involved in the initial tethering and rolling of immune cells along the endothelium of blood vessels, a critical step for their extravasation into tissues. Integrins, such as LFA-1 and VLA-4, mediate stronger adhesion and are important for immune cell migration and the formation of stable cell-cell conjugates necessary for immune cell activation and interaction. The immunoglobulin superfamily, including ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, often serves as ligands for integrins, further strengthening adhesion.

The regulation of immunzelladhäsion is highly dynamic and influenced by inflammatory signals. Cytokines and chemokines can upregulate the expression and activity of adhesion molecules, thereby promoting immune cell recruitment to sites of inflammation. Conversely, certain signals can downregulate adhesion to prevent excessive immune cell accumulation. Understanding immunzelladhäsion is vital for comprehending immune system dynamics and has implications for the development of therapies targeting inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, as well as cancer.