Abstract
Molecular recognition is generally thought of in terms of bond formation between unique sites on host and complementary guest molecules, but recent studies have revealed new complexities in biological recognition at cell surfaces. Adhesion between cell similarly involves specific interactions between analogous ligands and receptors. Recent force measurements, however, suggest that cell adhesion proteins may bind via multiple interaction sites that can form in a sequential manner. Other studies further show that in some instances, the principal recognition event may not be receptor-ligand docking, but the assembly of a complex pattern of many receptors and ligands.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 498-505 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Current Opinion in Colloid and Interface Science |
Volume | 6 |
Issue number | 5-6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2001 |
Keywords
- Cadherin
- Cell adhesion
- Force measurements
- Recognition
- Self-assembly
- Synapse
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
- Surfaces and Interfaces