Sejtkötdés

Sejtkötdés, also known as cell adhesion, is the process by which cells interact and attach to one another. This biological mechanism is fundamental for the formation and maintenance of tissues and organs in multicellular organisms. Cell adhesion plays crucial roles in various physiological processes, including embryonic development, immune responses, wound healing, and the prevention of pathogen invasion.

The mechanisms of sejtkötdés involve specialized protein molecules located on the cell surface, known as cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). These molecules can mediate interactions between cells of the same type (homophilic adhesion) or between cells of different types (heterophilic adhesion). They can also mediate cell-to-extracellular matrix adhesion, allowing cells to anchor to their surroundings.

Key families of CAMs include cadherins, integrins, selectins, and the immunoglobulin superfamily. Cadherins are calcium-dependent adhesion molecules that are essential for maintaining tissue integrity and forming stable cell junctions. Integrins are transmembrane receptors that link the cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix, playing vital roles in cell migration and signaling. Selectins are involved in the transient adhesion of leukocytes to endothelial cells during inflammation. The immunoglobulin superfamily includes molecules like ICAMs and NCAMs, which are involved in immune cell interactions and neuronal development.

Disruptions in sejtkötdés can lead to various pathological conditions, such as cancer metastasis, autoimmune diseases, and developmental disorders. Understanding the intricacies of cell adhesion is therefore critical for developing effective therapeutic strategies for these diseases.