Regulation of integrin-mediated adhesion during cell migration

Migrating cells form dynamic and highly regulated adhesive interactions wit h their environment. In particular, integrin-mediated adhesions to the extr acellular matrix (ECM) play a central role in cell migration. This review f ocuses on recent advances in understanding the adhesive mechanisms that reg ulate cell detachment at the rear of migrating fibroblasts and neutrophils. The contribution of several key adhesive regulators is discussed, includin g myosin mediated cell contractility, tyrosine phosphorylation, rho, calciu m fluxes, and calpain. A challenge for future investigation will be to dete rmine how adhesive events are spatially and temporally coordinated to promo te productive directional cell movements. (C) 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.