Cell adhesion molecule (CAM) (CAM)

Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are a diverse group of cell-surface glycoproteins that mediate the physical attachment between cells or between a cell and the extracellular matrix (ECM) (Gumbiner, 1996, PubMed). They are categorized into four major families: integrins, cadherins, selectins, and the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) (StatPearls, 2023). Beyond providing structural integrity, CAMs act as receptors that trigger intracellular signaling pathways regulating cell survival, proliferation, and migration (Janiszewska et al., 2020, PubMed). In pathological states, dysregulated CAM expression facilitates tumor metastasis by allowing cancer cells to detach from primary sites and adhere to distant tissues (Okegawa et al., 2004, PubMed). They also play a critical role in inflammatory diseases by mediating the recruitment and extravasation of leukocytes into tissues (Ley et al., 2007, Nature Reviews Immunology). Consequently, CAMs are significant therapeutic targets; for instance, monoclonal antibodies targeting specific integrins, such as Natalizumab and Vedolizumab, are used to treat multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease by blocking the entry of inflammatory cells into target organs (DrugBank, 2024).

Other names

Cell-surface adhesion proteinsCell adhesion moleculesCAMsAdhesion receptorsIntercellular adhesion moleculesCell-matrix adhesion proteins

Inhibition of cell-cell or cell-matrix adhesion by blocking the interaction between adhesion molecules and their ligands, thereby preventing leukocyte recruitment or tumor cell migration (Ley et al., 2007, Nature Reviews Immunology).