adhesionrelated

Adhesion-related refers to topics and phenomena that involve adhesion—the binding of two surfaces or interfaces. The term is used across disciplines such as biology, medicine, materials science, and engineering to categorize processes characterized by attachment rather than mere contact.

In biology, adhesion is central to development, tissue organization, and immune function. Cell adhesion involves cell surface molecules such as cadherins, integrins, and selectins that link cells to each other or to the extracellular matrix. Microbial adhesion enables bacteria and fungi to attach to host tissues or device surfaces, often mediated by fimbriae, pili, or specific adhesins. Adhesion strength and specificity influence processes like wound healing, angiogenesis, and metastasis.

In materials and engineering, adhesion refers to the attachment between materials or between a material and a substrate. Interfacial bonding can be mechanical, chemical, or physical (van der Waals or electrostatic). Adhesion performance is assessed through tests that measure bond strength and failure mode.

Clinically, adhesion can be beneficial or problematic. Postoperative adhesions are fibrous bands that form after surgery, potentially causing pain or obstruction. In contrast, controlled adhesion is essential for tissue engineering and the effectiveness of adhesives used in sutures, dental materials, and industrial glues. Research aims to better understand adhesion mechanisms, improve anti-adhesion strategies, and develop surfaces and molecules that promote or deter attachment as needed.