Endothelial ICAM-1 functions in adhesion and signaling during leukocyte recruitment

Abstract

Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1, CD54) was identified more than 20 years ago as a cytokine-inducible adhesion molecule [1]. Endothelial cell ICAM-1 surface expression is elevated at sites of endothelial cell activation in vivo and in vitro, and contributes to stable adhesion and transmigration of circulating blood leukocytes through its interaction with leukocyte β2 integrins. This chapter briefly reviews ICAM-1 structure and function, and then address the mechanisms through which ICAM-1-dependent adhesion and signaling control leukocyte transmigration.