Integrins are heterodimeric cell adhesion molecules that link the extracellular matrix to the
cytoskeleton. The integrin family in man comprises 24 members, which are the result of …

Platelet adhesion, activation and aggregation on the exposed subendothelial extracellular
matrix (ECM) are essential for haemostasis, but may also lead to occlusion of diseased …

▪ Abstract Cysteine proteases have traditionally been viewed as lysosomal mediators of
terminal protein degradation. However, recent findings refute this limited view and suggest a …

The calpain family of proteases has been implicated in cellular processes such as
apoptosis, proliferation and cell migration. Calpains are involved in several key aspects of …

Adhesion sites, which interconnect cells with their neighbors or with the extracellular matrix
(ECM), are large multiprotein complexes that provide mechanical coupling as well as a …

Integrin adhesion receptors link the extracellular matrix (ECM) 1 to the actin cytoskeleton
and transmit biochemical signals and mechanical force across the plasma membrane. This …

* Abbreviations used in this paper: DISC, death-inducing signaling complex; ECM,
extracellular matrix; FADD, Fas-associating protein with death domain; GFP, green …

Thrombin activates platelets in an ordered sequence of events that includes shape change,
increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+, activation of the αIIbβ3 integrin, granule secretion …

Integrin receptors play an important role during cell migration by mediating linkages and
transmitting forces between the extracellular matrix and the actin cytoskeleton. The …

Integrin-associated focal adhesions not only provide adhesive links between cellular actin
and extracellular matrix but also are sites of signal transmission into the cell interior. Many …