Cell Migration Guided by Cell-Cell Contacts in Innate Immunity

Trends Cell Biol. 2021 Feb;31(2):86-94. doi: 10.1016/j.tcb.2020.11.002. Epub 2020 Dec 3.

Abstract

The directed migration of leukocytes to sites of damage or infection is necessary for a productive immune response. There is substantial evidence supporting a key role for chemoattractants in directed migration, however, less is known about how cell-cell contacts affect the migratory behavior of leukocytes in innate immunity. Here, we explore how cell-cell contacts can affect the directed migration of innate immune cells, including their role in attracting, repelling, or stopping cell motility. Further investigation of cell contact dynamics as guidance cues may yield new insights into the regulation of innate immunity.

Keywords: cell–cell contact; macrophages; migration; neutrophils.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication*
  • Cell Movement / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate*
  • Neutrophils / metabolism
  • Neutrophils / physiology*
  • Signal Transduction / physiology