Development · 1992 · 66 citations · 38 references
Life SciencesCell BiologyDevelopmental BiologyCell AdhesionCell-cell CommunicationMorphogenesisAdherens JunctionsAdhesion MoleculesCell Adhesion MechanicsCell Adhesion ReceptorsCell-cell AdhesionMechanical Coupling Between CellsAdhesion Strength RegulationCell Adhesion MechanismsCell-cell Adhesion ForcesCell-cell Adhesion MechanicsCell-cell Junction ReinforcementCell-cell RecognitionCellular Contact SignalingDevelopmental Cell-cell Signaling
Many cell adhesion molecules have a distinct pattern of expression and well-defined role in cell-cell recognition. In contrast, NCAM is broadly expressed and perturbations of its function affect many diverse aspects of embryonic development. Evidence has been obtained suggesting that the molecule and its polysialic acid moiety serve not only to contribute to specific interactions, but also to regulate overall cell-cell apposition. In this latter mode, the molecule can have both a positive and a negative effect on a wide variety of contact-dependent cellular events.
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