Year: 1978
Type: article
Abstract: Quantitative theoretical models are described for treating interactions between cells which are mediated by mutually complementary receptors or by ligands, such as antigens or antigen-antibody complexes, which can bind and form links between the cells. It is found that relatively few receptor-receptor or receptor-ligand bonds can establish firm adhesion between the cells. Conditions on receptor numbers, mobility, and binding constants are defined for rapid binding between cells. As mobile receptors diffuse into and become concentrated in regions of intercellular contact, the cell membranes will be thereby locally modified, possibly forming a contact cap. An analysis is made of the extent and rate of such receptor accumulation. Some applications of these considerations to problems in immunology are sketched.
Author: Graeme I. Bell
Language: English
Subfield: Immunology and Allergy
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W171495027