Question

Selectins are a family of transmembrane molecules with a common core structure, distinguished from each other by the presence of different lectin-like domains in their extracellular portion. The selectins are particularly important for leukocyte homing to specific tissues, and can be expressed on the surface of leukocytes or on vascular endothelium. The smallest of the vascular selectins is the leukocyte-specific selectin. What is it called?

Mac-1
LFA-1
L-selectin
VLA-4
ICAM-1

Answer 1

The smallest vascular selectin specific to leukocytes is called L-selectin. It plays a crucial role in leukocyte homing by facilitating adhesion to the vascular endothelium. The option (C) is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The smallest vascular selectin that is leukocyte-specific is known as L-selectin. This transmembrane molecule is crucial for the process of leukocyte homing, which is the migration of leukocytes (white blood cells) to areas of tissue damage or infection in response to chemical signals.

L-selectin includes different lectin-like domains that are responsible for the adhesion to vascular endothelium, initiating the leukocyte's journey to the site where their immune response is needed. Therefore, option (C) is correct.