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Endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules in human disease
M P Bevilacqua1, R M Nelson, G Mannori
1Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 92093-0669.
Annual Review of Medicine
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Leukocyte adhesion molecules on endothelial cells are crucial for host defense but can cause disease. This review covers their role in atherosclerosis, arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Leukocyte accumulation at infection sites is vital for host defense.
- Leukocyte adhesion to the vessel wall is a critical step mediated by endothelial cell surface molecules.
- Endothelial adhesion molecules include selectins and immunoglobulin superfamily members.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules.
- To emphasize their expression and function in human diseases.
- To discuss their role in pathological processes.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature.
- Emphasis on molecular mechanisms of adhesion.
- Discussion of clinical relevance in various diseases.
Main Results:
- Endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules are key in inflammation.
- Dysregulated expression contributes to diseases like atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Specific molecules facilitate leukocyte migration to sites of injury or infection.
Conclusions:
- Endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules are critical for both beneficial immune responses and pathological inflammation.
- Understanding these molecules offers therapeutic targets for inflammatory diseases.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate their complex roles in human disease.