L SELECTIN Meaning and
Definition
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L Selectin, also known as CD62L or leukocyte selectin, is a cell adhesion molecule expressed on the surface of leukocytes and lymphocytes. It is a glycoprotein receptor that plays a crucial role in mediating the initial stages of leukocyte recruitment and migration from the bloodstream into inflamed tissues.
L Selectin functions as a homing receptor that facilitates the interaction of leukocytes with endothelial cells lining blood vessel walls. Its expression is particularly prominent on naïve or resting leukocytes, as well as memory T cells and B cells. It plays a vital role in the recruitment of these cells to sites of inflammation or infection.
L Selectin recognizes and binds to specific carbohydrate ligands, such as sialyl-Lewis X, which are displayed on the surface of activated endothelial cells. This interaction initiates a cascade of events that ultimately leads to leukocyte rolling, adhesion, and subsequent transmigration across the endothelium.
The expression and activity of L Selectin are tightly regulated by various factors, including cytokines, chemokines, and other signaling molecules. Shedding of L Selectin can occur, mediated by proteases, resulting in the downregulation of its expression and alteration of leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions.
Overall, L Selectin is an essential adhesion molecule involved in the early stages of leukocyte trafficking and recruitment to sites of inflammation. Its role in mediating leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions makes it a potential therapeutic target for modulating immune responses and treating inflammatory diseases.
Common Misspellings for L SELECTIN
Etymology of L SELECTIN
The word "L Selectin" comes from the combination of the letter "L" and the term "Selectin". The "L" is an abbreviation for "Leukocyte", referring to white blood cells. "Selectin" is derived from the verb "select", indicating the role of these proteins in facilitating the adhesion and migration of leukocytes by selectively binding to specific molecules on the surfaces of blood vessel cells. Therefore, "L Selectin" specifically highlights the white blood cell nature of the protein.
