The molecular mechanisms of post-adhesive transmigration of T cells

Leukocyte extravasation is an essential phenomenon in inflammatory responses of the body. However, less is known about the mechanisms of transendothelial migration of leukocytes subsequent to their adhesion to the endothelium. It could be considered that at least three different cellular responses participate in the transmigration of adherent leukocytes: 1) polarization of adherent cells in cell shape, 2) interactions between adherent cells and molecules bound to the endothelial surface to stimulate migration through the junction between adjacent endothelial cells, and 3) co-ordination with endothelial cells to open the junction. Molecules involved in these events are discussed in this review.