Vitronectin
Vitronectin
Vitronectin (pronounced vi-truh-nek-tin) is a glycoprotein that is present in blood plasma and extracellular matrix. It is a major cell adhesion molecule that mediates cell spreading and migration.
Etymology
The term "Vitronectin" is derived from the Latin "vitreus", meaning glassy or clear, and "nectere", meaning to bind or tie. This refers to the protein's ability to bind to various cells and molecules.
Function
Vitronectin is a multifunctional protein that is involved in several biological processes. It promotes cell adhesion and spreading, inhibits the membrane-damaging effect of the terminal cytolytic complement pathway, and binds to several serpin serine protease inhibitors. It is recognized by certain members of the integrin family and serves as a cell-to-substrate adhesion molecule.
Related Terms
- Glycoprotein: A type of protein that has sugar molecules attached to it. They play essential roles in the body's immune system and are involved in various biological processes.
- Extracellular matrix: A three-dimensional network of extracellular macromolecules such as collagen, enzymes, and glycoproteins that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.
- Cell adhesion: The process by which cells interact and attach to a surface, substrate or another cell, mediated by interactions between molecules of the cell surface.
- Serpin: A superfamily of proteins with similar structures that were originally identified as a set of proteins able to inhibit proteases.
- Integrin: A family of transmembrane receptors that facilitate cell-extracellular matrix adhesion.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vitronectin
- Wikipedia's article - Vitronectin
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