Sejtjéhez

Sejtjéhez is a term used in biology to refer to the process by which a cell attaches to or adheres to another cell or to the extracellular matrix. This adhesion is crucial for a variety of cellular functions, including tissue formation, cell migration, immune responses, and cell signaling. The mechanisms of cell adhesion are complex and involve a variety of molecules, primarily proteins, that mediate interactions between cells and their environment.

Key players in cell adhesion include cadherins, integrins, selectins, and the immunoglobulin superfamily. Cadherins are calcium-dependent adhesion molecules that mediate homophilic binding, meaning they bind to cadherins on adjacent cells. Integrins are transmembrane receptors that bind to components of the extracellular matrix, such as collagen and fibronectin, and also play a role in cell-cell adhesion. Selectins are involved in the initial attachment of leukocytes to endothelial cells during inflammation. The immunoglobulin superfamily includes proteins like ICAMs and NCAMs, which mediate cell-cell adhesion through heterophilic interactions.

The strength and duration of cell adhesion can be regulated by various intracellular signaling pathways, allowing cells to dynamically adjust their adhesive properties in response to environmental cues. Disruptions in cell adhesion processes can lead to a range of pathological conditions, including cancer metastasis, autoimmune diseases, and developmental disorders. Understanding sejtjéhez is therefore fundamental to comprehending normal physiological processes and developing therapeutic strategies for diseases associated with impaired cell adhesion.