SELL

L-selectin (SELL), or CD62L, is expressed on lymphocytes and other leukocytes. It serves as a homing receptor for lymphocytes to enter lymph nodes by binding to high endothelial venules (HEVs).

SELL also serves to bind neutrophils to cytokine-activated endothelial cells at sites of inflammation. L-selectin is located on the tips of microvillus projections of leukocytes, facilitating its interaction with ligands on endothelium.

At least three endothelial cell ligands can bind L-selectin-glycan-bearing cell adhesion molecule-1 (GlyCAM-1), a secreted proteoglycan found on HEVs of lymph node; mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MADCAM1), expressed on endothelial cells in gut-associated lymphoid tissues; and CD34, a proteoglycan on endothelial cells (and bone marrow cells).

The protein backbones of all these ligands are modified by specific carbohydrates, which are the molecules actually recognized by the selectin.

See also

 SELs (selectins)