Description
Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 is an integral membrane protein, a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily, and a ligand for lymphocyte function-associated (LFA) antigens, a beta 2 leukocyte integrin. The normal function of human ICAM-1 is to provide adhesion between endothelial cells and leukocytes after injury or stress. ICAM-1 binds to leukocyte function-associated antigen (LFA-1) or macrophage-1 antigen (Mac-1). It is found on leukocytes, fibroblasts, epithelial cells and endothelial cells and its expression is regulated by inflammatory cytokines. ICAM-1 has a tissue distribution similar to that of the major histocompatibility complex class II antigens and is likely to play a role in inflammatory responses