Abstract

Junctional adhesion molecules (JAMs) of the immunoglobulin superfamily are important in the control of vascular permeability and leukocyte transmigration across endothelial-cell surfaces, by engaging in homophilic, heterophilic and lateral interactions. Through their localization on the endothelial-cell surface and expression by platelets, JAMs contribute to adhesive interactions with circulating leukocytes and platelets. Antibody-blocking studies and studies using genetically modified mice have implicated these functions of JAMs in the regulation of leukocyte recruitment to sites of inflammation and ischaemia–reperfusion injury, in growth-factor-mediated angiogenesis, atherogenesis and neointima formation. The comparison of different JAM-family members and animal models, however, shows that the picture remains rather complex. This Review summarizes recent progress and future directions in understanding the role of JAMs as 'gate keepers' in inflammation and vascular pathology.

Author affiliations

1. Institute for Molecular Cardiovascular Research, RWTH University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
2. FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology and Department of Biomolecular and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Milan, 20139 Milan, Italy.

Correspondence to: Christian Weber¹ Email: cweber@ukaachen.de

MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS

These links to content published by NPG are automatically generated.