Work

Focal Adhesion Kinases in Adhesion Structures and Disease

Year: 2012

Type: article

Abstract: Cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential for cell migration, proliferation, and embryonic development. Cells can contact the ECM through a wide range of matrix contact structures such as focal adhesions, podosomes, and invadopodia. Although they are different in structural design and basic function, they share common remodeling proteins such as integrins, talin, paxillin, and the tyrosine kinases FAK, Pyk2, and Src. In this paper, we compare and contrast the basic organization and role of focal adhesions, podosomes, and invadopodia in different cells. In addition, we discuss the role of the tyrosine kinases, FAK, Pyk2, and Src, which are critical for the function of the different adhesion structures. Finally, we discuss the essential role of these tyrosine kinases from the perspective of human diseases.

Source: Journal of Signal Transduction

DOI: 10.1155/2012/296450

Authors: Pierre P. Eleniste, Angela Bruzzaniti

Institution: Indiana University Indianapolis

Language: English

Topic: Cell Adhesion Molecules Research

Subfield: Immunology and Allergy

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Award: Regulation of Osteoblast Function by Megakaryocytes: Key Signaling Proteins