Laminin and fibronectin bind to which type of receptors?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

Laminin and fibronectin are both key components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and play crucial roles in cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. They specifically bind to integrin receptors, which are transmembrane proteins that facilitate cell-extracellular matrix adhesion. Integrins connect the cytoskeleton of the cell to the ECM, allowing cells to interact with their surrounding environment effectively.

Integrins are heterodimeric receptors, meaning they are composed of two different subunits that combine to form the functional receptor. Upon binding to fibronectin or laminin, integrins trigger signaling pathways that regulate various cellular processes such as growth, survival, and motility, thereby influencing tissue development and repair.

In contrast, cadherins are involved in cell-cell adhesion and do not bind to these ECM components, while immunoglobulin receptors are primarily involved in immune responses. Receptor tyrosine kinases are involved in signaling pathways related to growth factor signaling but do not interact specifically with laminin or fibronectin.

Thus, the binding of laminin and fibronectin to integrin receptors underscores their vital role in mediating interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix, which is essential for maintaining tissue structure and function.

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