LAMININ RECEPTORS Meaning and
Definition
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Laminin receptors are a class of cell surface receptors that specifically bind to a protein called laminin, which is a major component of the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix is a three-dimensional network of proteins and carbohydrates that surrounds and supports cells within tissues. Laminin receptors play a critical role in cell adhesion, migration, and signaling by facilitating interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix.
Laminin receptors are present on the plasma membrane of various cell types, including epithelial cells, neurons, muscle cells, and immune cells. They consist of different protein subunits, such as integrins and dystroglycans, which form complexes that recognize and bind to specific regions of laminin molecules.
The binding of laminin to its receptors triggers a variety of cellular responses. For example, it can activate signaling pathways that regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Laminin receptors also promote the attachment of cells to the extracellular matrix, enabling cells to maintain their proper positioning within tissues and participate in tissue development, repair, and remodeling.
Defects or abnormalities in laminin receptors have been associated with various diseases and conditions, including cancer, muscular dystrophy, and neurodegenerative disorders. Manipulating laminin receptor interactions represents a potential target for therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating cell behavior, promoting tissue regeneration, or preventing disease progression.
Common Misspellings for LAMININ RECEPTORS
- kaminin receptors
- paminin receptors
- oaminin receptors
- lzminin receptors
- lsminin receptors
- lwminin receptors
- lqminin receptors
- laninin receptors
- lakinin receptors
- lajinin receptors
- lamunin receptors
- lamjnin receptors
- lamknin receptors
- lamonin receptors
- lam9nin receptors
- lam8nin receptors
- lamibin receptors
- lamimin receptors
- lamijin receptors
- lamihin receptors
Etymology of LAMININ RECEPTORS
The word "laminin" comes from the Latin word "lamina", meaning "thin plate" or "layer". Laminins are a family of proteins that are an essential component of the extracellular matrix, particularly in the basal lamina, a specialized form of extracellular matrix that underlies epithelial and endothelial cells.
The term "receptors" refers to molecules on the cell surface that bind to specific molecules, such as ligands or extracellular matrix components, and initiate cellular responses. In the case of laminin receptors, these are specific cell surface proteins that interact with laminin molecules, mediating various cellular processes, including cell adhesion, migration, and signaling.
