Week 7 A - Cell Adhesion and Migration

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to cell adhesion and migration, focusing on processes important in cancer biology and cellular mechanisms.

Cell migration

The process where cells move from one location to another, important in various biological processes such as cancer metastasis, wound repair, and embryo development.

Lamellipodium

A broad protrusion of plasma membrane at the front of a migrating cell, formed by actin branching and polymerization.

Integrins

Cell surface molecules that act as matrix receptors, connecting cells to the extracellular matrix (ECM) and transmitting signals into the cell.

Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs)

Enzymes involved in the breakdown of the extracellular matrix, crucial for cancer cell migration and metastasis.

Chemotaxis

The movement of cells toward higher concentrations of certain chemicals, essential for processes like immune response and development.

Protrusion

The initial step in cell migration where the leading edge of the cell extends forward.

Adhesion complexes

Structures formed by integrins and associated proteins that link cells to the ECM and provide stability during migration.

Extracellular matrix (ECM)

A network of proteins and molecules secreted by cells providing structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)

A biological process allowing epithelial cells to acquire migratory and invasive properties, critical in cancer metastasis.

Rho GTPases

A family of proteins that regulate the cytoskeleton and are involved in controlling the direction of cell migration.