Recombinant Proteins
Product List
VCAM1 Human
Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 Human Recombinant
VCAM1 Human, HEK
Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 Human Recombinant, HEK
VCAM1 Human, sf9
Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 Human Recombinant, sf9
VCAM1 Mouse
Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 Mouse Recombinant
Introduction
Vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM) is a type of cell adhesion molecule (CAM) that plays a crucial role in the adhesion of leukocytes to the vascular endothelium. It is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and is primarily known as VCAM-1 (Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1). VCAM-1 is encoded by the VCAM1 gene and is classified based on its structure and function within the immune system.
Key Biological Properties: VCAM-1 is a transmembrane glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 110 kDa. It consists of seven immunoglobulin-like domains and is heavily glycosylated, which is essential for its adhesive functions.
Expression Patterns: VCAM-1 is not constitutively expressed in most tissues but is induced in response to inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 (IL-1). It is primarily expressed on the surface of endothelial cells, but can also be found on other cell types, including smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and certain immune cells.
Tissue Distribution: VCAM-1 is predominantly expressed in vascular tissues, particularly in areas of inflammation. It is also found in the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys, where it plays a role in various physiological and pathological processes.
Primary Biological Functions: The primary function of VCAM-1 is to mediate the adhesion of leukocytes to the endothelium, facilitating their transmigration into tissues during immune responses. This process is critical for the recruitment of immune cells to sites of infection or injury.
Role in Immune Responses: VCAM-1 is essential for the immune response, as it enables the firm adhesion of leukocytes to the endothelium, allowing them to exit the bloodstream and enter tissues where they can combat pathogens and promote tissue repair.
Pathogen Recognition: While VCAM-1 itself is not directly involved in pathogen recognition, its role in leukocyte adhesion and transmigration is crucial for the immune system’s ability to respond to infections and other inflammatory stimuli.
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: VCAM-1 interacts with integrins, particularly very late antigen-4 (VLA-4) on leukocytes. This interaction is critical for the firm adhesion of leukocytes to the endothelium.
Binding Partners: The primary binding partner of VCAM-1 is the integrin VLA-4 (α4β1 integrin), which is expressed on the surface of leukocytes. This interaction is essential for the adhesion and transmigration of leukocytes.
Downstream Signaling Cascades: The binding of VCAM-1 to VLA-4 triggers intracellular signaling pathways that promote cytoskeletal rearrangements and the activation of various kinases and transcription factors. These signaling events facilitate the firm adhesion and transmigration of leukocytes.
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: The expression of VCAM-1 is tightly regulated by inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1. These cytokines activate transcription factors, including nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), which bind to the promoter region of the VCAM1 gene and induce its transcription.
Transcriptional Regulation: The transcription of VCAM1 is primarily regulated by NF-κB, which is activated in response to inflammatory stimuli. Other transcription factors, such as activator protein-1 (AP-1) and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), also play a role in the regulation of VCAM1 expression.
Post-Translational Modifications: VCAM-1 undergoes various post-translational modifications, including glycosylation, which is essential for its adhesive functions. These modifications can influence the stability, localization, and activity of VCAM-1.
Biomedical Research: VCAM-1 is widely studied in the context of inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. It serves as a marker for endothelial activation and is used to investigate the mechanisms of leukocyte adhesion and transmigration.
Diagnostic Tools: Elevated levels of soluble VCAM-1 (sVCAM-1) in the blood are associated with various inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases. sVCAM-1 is used as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of these conditions.
Therapeutic Strategies: Targeting VCAM-1 and its interactions with integrins is a potential therapeutic strategy for treating inflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Inhibitors of VCAM-1 or its binding partners are being developed to reduce leukocyte adhesion and inflammation.
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: VCAM-1 plays a critical role in various stages of life, from development to aging. During embryonic development, VCAM-1 is involved in the formation of the vascular system and the migration of hematopoietic stem cells. In adults, VCAM-1 is essential for immune surveillance and the response to inflammation and injury.
Development to Aging and Disease: As individuals age, the expression and function of VCAM-1 can be altered, contributing to age-related diseases such as atherosclerosis and chronic inflammation. Dysregulation of VCAM-1 expression and activity is also implicated in various pathological conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
