What are cellular adhesion molecules (CAM) responsible for?

Cellular adhesion molecules (CAM) play a crucial role in the immune response by guiding white blood cells to sites of infection. These molecules are expressed on the surfaces of various cells, including endothelial cells lining blood vessels and leukocytes (white blood cells), facilitating the adhesion and migration of leukocytes from the bloodstream into tissues during an immune response.

When an infection occurs, cytokines and other signaling molecules increase the expression of CAM on the endothelial cells at the site of inflammation, prompting white blood cells to bind to these adhesion molecules. This process aids in the targeted movement of defense cells to where they are needed most, allowing for effective pathogen clearance and immune response initiation.

In contrast, while antibodies are crucial for fighting infections, they are produced by a different class of immune cells (B cells) and are not the function of CAM. Blood clotting involves different factors and mechanisms separate from the role of adhesion molecules. Repairing injured tissues also involves various cellular processes and signals beyond just the function of CAM. Thus, the primary and correct function attributed to CAM is their role in guiding white blood cells to infection sites.