Promotion of cell adherence and spreading: a novel function of RAGE, the highly selective differentiation marker of human alveolar epithelial type I cells

摘要: The receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) is expressed under pathological conditions in many tissues and has been assigned functions. We demonstrate, normal human lung tissue, the preferential highly abundant expression of RAGE by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In addition, expression, as a specific differentiation marker alveolar epithelial type I cells (AT cells), its localization to basolateral plasma membrane have confirmed means newly raised monoclonal antibodies. physiological function on AT previously remained elusive. By using HEK293 transfected with cDNA encoding full-length RAGE, we show that enhances adherence collagen-coated surfaces striking capacity inducing cell spreading. binding collagen assaying soluble various substrates. might thus assist acquire spreading morphology, thereby ensuring effective gas exchange stability.