Several classes of adhesion molecules play pivotal roles in cellular adhesion:
Cadherins: These are calcium-dependent adhesion molecules that mediate homophilic binding (binding to the same type of molecule) between cells, crucial for maintaining tissue structure. Integrins: These transmembrane receptors facilitate cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion, playing significant roles in signal transduction and cellular communication. Selectins: These molecules are involved in leukocyte-endothelial cell binding, essential for immune responses and inflammation. Immunoglobulin Superfamily: This group includes various proteins like ICAMs and VCAMs that mediate both cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions.
