Control of inflammatory processes by adhesion glycoproteins.

Cell surface adhesive glycoproteins are principal regulators of nearly all aspects of immune/inflammatory responses. Using monoclonal antibodies to individual adhesion molecules, the expression and contribution of specific molecules in the pathogenesis of allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness in monkeys has been studied. Results confirm the importance of cell adhesion and demonstrate that antagonism of a single adhesion molecule may provide a novel therapeutic approach.