N-cadherin mediated cell-cell adhesion in the arterial wall

grantor: University of TorontoDuring migration, smooth muscle cells (SMC) modulate their interactions with surrounding matrix and cells. The goal of this study was to examine the lateral adhesion N-cadherin complex and how it is modulated as SMCs assume a migratory phenotype during proliferative responses to injury. N-cadherin was found localized at the basolateral extensions of contacting SMCs. Inhibition of N-cadherin complexes with blocking antibodies reduced the ability of SMCs to migrate in vitro. Morphologically, cells had shorter, blunted processes into the wound area that translated into significantly reduced wound edge growth at 24 and 48 hours after wounding. In vivo, western analysis and immunofluoresent staining showed that neointimal SMCs in rat carotid arteries expressed increased levels of N-cadherin, ß-catenin and plakoglobin at 1 and 3 weeks and decreased levels at 8 weeks after balloon catheter injury. These results suggest that cell-cell contact mediated by N-cadherin is involved in the migration of SMCs.M.Sc