Cell-cell and cell-matrix interfaces

Cell-cell and cell-matrix interfaces describe the **specialized contact points and molecular assemblies that mediate adhesion and communication between cells and between cells and the extracellular matrix**. Key molecular families include:\n - **Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs)**, which bind cells to each other or to the ECM and include integrins, cadherins, selectins, and immunoglobulin superfamily members[2][3][6][4]. \n - **Matrix receptors** (notably integrins), which link the cytoskeleton to ECM proteins and mediate bidirectional signaling influencing cell shape, proliferation, movement, and survival[1][5].\nThese interfaces are crucial for maintaining tissue architecture, orchestrating cell signaling, enabling immune surveillance, and regulating morphogenetic processes in development and wound repair. Aberrations in these interactions are central to the pathogenesis of cancer metastasis, immune and inflammatory diseases, and other disorders[2][6][8].\n\n**Note:** For target annotation and database structuring, this entry ("Cell-cell and cell-matrix interfaces") should not be stored as a distinct canonical target. Instead, use the specific molecules (e.g., "Integrin alpha-4", "E-cadherin", "Intercellular adhesion molecule 1") that mediate these interfaces for actionable therapeutic or biomarker information.

Other names

Cell adhesion molecules and matrix receptorsCell-cell junctions and cell-matrix junctionsCAMs and ECM receptors

Inhibition or activation of specific adhesion molecule function (e.g., blocking integrin-ligand binding)\nModulation of signal transduction downstream of adhesion molecule engagement