Adhesion in cell migration

Abstract

Adhesive interactions play a central role in cell migration. The regulation of these interactions requires the coordination of a multiplicity of signals, both spatially and temporally. The role of the integrin family has received considerable recent attention. Progress has been made in the elucidation of the mechanisms by which growth factors and other motogenic factors stimulate migration. Major advances have also been made in understanding the mechanisms by which the formation and breakdown of adhesive complexes are regulated, including the participation of members of the rho family. Despite these advances, many important questions remain, and the field seems well positioned to answer them.