Regulation of leukocyte migration through adhesion molecules

The ability of leukocytes to leave the bloodstream and migrate into tissues is a critical feature of the immune system, essential in eliminating infectious pathogens and allowing leukocyte accumulation at sites of injury, infection or inflammation. Lymphocytes continuously recirculate between tissues, lymphoid organs and blood. whereas neutrophils or monocytes lack this capacity. Migration of various leukocyte subpopulations into tissues is regulated by specific combinations of adhesion receptors and chemoattractants which direct them into tissues. Selectins initiate leukocyte attachment along vascular endothelium by mediating leukocyte rolling along inflamed endothelium. whereas CD11/CD18 (alpha L, M, X/beta(2)) integrins have a more important role in subsequent steps of leukocyte migration into tissues. alpha(4)/beta(1) or alpha(4)/beta- integrins play a role in mediating lymphocyte rolling and firm adhesion to vascular wall. Leukocyte migration is an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, the regulation of hematopoiesis and hemostasis. This reaction is also involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, reperfusion injuries and malignant cell metastasis. Leukocyte migration inhibitors may have therapeutic potential against inflammation and associated diseases.