Complimentary molecules present on cell surfaces that allow cells to interact with each other, acting in the same way as a lock and key.

Molecules that are involved in the adherence of cells to each other or to extracellular matrix proteins.

compound made by endothelial cells that cause white blood cells in the blood to “stick” or adhere to one location. Adhesion molecules are part of the innate immune response as theyÂ're released when TNF, IL-IB, interferon and other cytokines, as well as anaphylatoxins from complement, bind to receptors on endothelial cells. Adhesion molecules provide a link from innate immune response activation and atherosclerosis