 CD11b (source code)

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= CD11b
{c}

<CD11b> is the alphaM <protein subunit> that pairs with <CD18> to form the <integrin> <Mac-1>. It is useful as a molecular identifier on several myeloid-cell populations, including <neutrophils>, but its detection alone does not measure receptor activation or prove one unique cell identity. The whole receptor contains both chains.

A 1990 study tested <Mac-1> binding to <ICAM-1> using purified proteins and engineered cells in reciprocal arrangements. Cells carrying one partner attached to a surface carrying the other, and appropriate <monoclonal antibodies> inhibited the interaction. Additional experiments examined stimulated <neutrophil> attachment to stimulated <endothelium>.<ICAM-1 (CD54): a counter-receptor for Mac-1 (CD11b CD18) by Michael S. Diamond and others>[Abstract: purified/transfected components, reciprocal assays and cellular comparison]{ref}

Reciprocity is illuminating: if cells bind a purified surface in one orientation, an unintended cell component might still contribute. Reversing which partner is on the surface and controlling expression supplies another test of the proposed pairing. The result supports a specific <Mac-1>/<ICAM-1> contribution under the tested conditions, rather than claiming that every <CD11b>-bearing cell adheres identically in every environment.

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