Immune response selectins

The SLe epitope is expressed on inflammation-induced acute phase proteins which serve as endogenous competitors for selectins and mediate a dampening of the immune response, returning inflammation to homeostasis [53]. Inhibitors of the selectins have been proposed to be useful therapies for treating inflammatory disorders including respiratory distress [54], hypersensitivity responses [55], and surgically induced myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury [56]. Animal studies have shown that the inhibition of selectin-carbohydrate interactions can alleviate these inflammatory responses. 

Proteins termed selectins are members of the C-type family. Selectins bind immune-system cells to the sites of injury in the inflammatory response (Figure 11.30). The L, E, and P forms of selectins bind specifically to carbohydrates on /ymph-node vessels, endothelium, or activated blood platelets, respectively. New therapeutic agents that control inflammation may emerge from a deeper understanding of how selectins bind and distinguish different carbohydrates. 

Selectins bind immune-system cells to sites of injury in the inflammatory response (Figure 11.27). The F, F, and P forms of selectins bind... 

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