Host cell adhesion protein (CAM)

Host cell adhesion proteins, also known as Cell Adhesion Molecules (CAMs), are a diverse group of cell-surface glycoproteins that facilitate physical interactions between cells or between cells and the extracellular matrix (Source: Gumbiner, 1996). These proteins are categorized into several families, including integrins, selectins, cadherins, and the immunoglobulin superfamily, and they play fundamental roles in tissue morphogenesis, wound healing, and immune cell trafficking (Source: Janeway's Immunobiology). In the context of infectious diseases, many viruses and bacteria exploit these proteins as primary attachment factors or entry receptors to invade host tissues (Source: Smith et al., 2018). For instance, the CD4 molecule is a critical adhesion protein used by HIV-1, while various integrins are utilized by pathogens like adenovirus and Borrelia burgdorferi. Therapeutic agents targeting these proteins, such as monoclonal antibodies, aim to competitively inhibit these interactions to treat infections or chronic inflammatory conditions like multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease (Source: PMID: 29155424). However, because host adhesion proteins are essential for normal physiological processes, their pharmacological blockade can lead to significant safety risks, most notably an increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections due to impaired immune surveillance (Source: FDA Tysabri Label).

Other names

Cell adhesion moleculeCAMHost cell receptorAdhesin receptorSurface adhesion glycoprotein

Blockade of cell-surface protein interactions to inhibit pathogen entry or immune cell migration (Source: PMID: 30245010).