Endothelial cell-specific molecule 2 (ECSM2) localizes to cell-cell junctions and modulates bFGF-directed cell migration via the ERK-FAK pathway.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite its first discovery by in silico cloning of novel endothelial cell-specific genes a decade ago, the biological functions of endothelial cell-specific molecule 2 (ECSM2) have only recently begun to be understood. Limited data suggest its involvement in cell migration and apoptosis. However, the underlying signaling mechanisms and novel functions of ECSM2 remain to be explored.

Methodology/principal findings

A rabbit anti-ECSM2 monoclonal antibody (RabMAb) was generated and used to characterize the endogenous ECSM2 protein. Immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, deglycosylation, immunostaining and confocal microscopy validated that endogenous ECSM2 is a plasma membrane glycoprotein preferentially expressed in vascular endothelial cells (ECs). Expression patter

SUBMITTER: Shi C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3123356 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature