Cells Rely on Cell-Adhesion Molecules to Form Tissues
- Cells within tissues are interconnected through cell-to-cell junctions, which rely on cell-adhesion molecules (CAMs) found in the plasma membranes of neighboring cells.
- These junctions are crucial for maintaining the structure and function of tissues and organs.
Definition
Cell-adhesion molecules (CAMs)
Cell-adhesion molecules (CAMs) are proteins that span the phospholipid bilayer of the membrane.
While you are not required to have detailed knowledge of individual CAM types, understanding their general role in cell adhesion and tissue formation is essential.
Structure and Function of CAMs
- Certain domains of CAMs are embedded within the bilayer, while others protrude into the extracellular environment.
- Junction formation occurs when CAMs on adjacent cells bind together through their extracellular domains.
- In some cases, the same CAM type is present in both cells, facilitating symmetrical junctions that group similar cell types.
- In other cases, different CAMs interact to form asymmetrical junctions, allowing for connections between distinct cell types and creating more complex tissue structures.
CAMs are highly specific to the cells they bind to, ensuring proper tissue organization
