Question

There are a large number of integral proteins that are involved in cell-cell adhesion. Which of the following integral proteins do not require Ca2+ when they mediate cell-cell interactions?

A. Cadherins
B. Selectins
C. Integrins
D. IgCAMs (Immunoglobulin cell adhesion molecules)

Answer 1

IgCAMs (Immunoglobulin cell adhesion molecules) are integral proteins that facilitate cell-cell adhesion without the requirement of Ca2+, unlike cadherins, selectins, and integrins which often rely on calcium.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the types of integral proteins involved in cell-cell adhesion, IgCAMs (Immunoglobulin cell adhesion molecules) do not require Ca2+ for mediating cell-cell interactions. These molecules are a part of the Intercellular Cell Adhesion Molecules (ICAMs) and play a critical role in neural connections without the need for calcium ions. In contrast, cadherins, selectins, and integrins often depend on calcium for their adhesion functions. For instance, cadherins are known for being calcium-dependent and are crucial in forming strong cohesive tissues through adherents junctions such as desmosomes. Integrins, on the other hand, are significant in terms of their role in the attachment of cells to biomaterial scaffolds and the extracellular matrix (ECM).