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Nectins and nectin-like molecules: roles in cell adhesion, migration, and polarization
Yoshimi Takai1, Kenji Irie, Kazuya Shimizu
1Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine/Faculty of Medicine, Suita 565-0871, Japan. ytakai@molbio.med.osaka-u.ac.jp
Cancer Science
|August 7, 2003
Summary
Nectins and nectin-like molecules (necls) are key cell adhesion proteins. This review details their roles in cell adhesion, migration, and polarization, highlighting necl-5
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nectins are Ca(2+)-independent immunoglobulin-like cell-cell adhesion molecules.
- They mediate homophilic and heterophilic cell-cell interactions.
- Nectin-based adhesion is crucial for adherens junction formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the roles and mechanisms of nectins and nectin-like molecules (necls).
- To explore their functions in cell adhesion, migration, and polarization.
- To highlight the distinct functions of necls, such as necl-5.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nectin and necl research.
- Analysis of molecular interactions and signaling pathways.
- Focus on actin cytoskeleton reorganization and gene expression.
Main Results:
- Nectin adhesion activates Cdc42 and Rac small G proteins.
- This activation influences adherens junction formation and cell polarity.
- Necl-5 heterophilically interacts with nectin-3, regulating cell migration and adhesion.
Conclusions:
- Nectins and necls are critical regulators of cell-cell interactions.
- They play diverse roles in fundamental cellular processes like adhesion and migration.
- Understanding these molecules provides insights into tissue development and homeostasis.