Adhesion molecules and inflammatory injury. Steven M. Albelda, C. Wayne Smith, and Peter A. Ward summarize the role of adhesion molecules in inflammatory processes. Neutrophils interact with endothelial cells through a series of adhesion molecules, including selectins, integrins, and immunoglobulin superfamily members. The process begins with neutrophil rolling, mediated by selectins, followed by firm adhesion via integrins and transmigration through endothelial cells. These interactions are regulated by chemotactic stimuli and adhesion molecules like PECAM-1. Studies using blocking antibodies, chimeric proteins, and genetically modified animals have shown that adhesion molecule blockade can inhibit inflammation. However, different types of inflammation require distinct adhesion molecules. Understanding these molecules may allow for targeted therapies for various inflammatory diseases. The role of adhesion molecules in inflammation is complex, with different molecules playing roles in different tissues and inflammatory conditions. Therapeutic approaches include blocking adhesion molecules with monoclonal antibodies, using soluble adhesion molecules, and developing peptide mimetics. These strategies show promise in treating inflammatory diseases. The study highlights the importance of adhesion molecules in inflammation and the potential for targeted therapies.Adhesion molecules and inflammatory injury. Steven M. Albelda, C. Wayne Smith, and Peter A. Ward summarize the role of adhesion molecules in inflammatory processes. Neutrophils interact with endothelial cells through a series of adhesion molecules, including selectins, integrins, and immunoglobulin superfamily members. The process begins with neutrophil rolling, mediated by selectins, followed by firm adhesion via integrins and transmigration through endothelial cells. These interactions are regulated by chemotactic stimuli and adhesion molecules like PECAM-1. Studies using blocking antibodies, chimeric proteins, and genetically modified animals have shown that adhesion molecule blockade can inhibit inflammation. However, different types of inflammation require distinct adhesion molecules. Understanding these molecules may allow for targeted therapies for various inflammatory diseases. The role of adhesion molecules in inflammation is complex, with different molecules playing roles in different tissues and inflammatory conditions. Therapeutic approaches include blocking adhesion molecules with monoclonal antibodies, using soluble adhesion molecules, and developing peptide mimetics. These strategies show promise in treating inflammatory diseases. The study highlights the importance of adhesion molecules in inflammation and the potential for targeted therapies.