Human L-Selectin / CD62L (SELL) Protein

Background

Selectin L (SELL), commonly known as L-selectin, is a cell adhesion molecule that belongs to the selectin family, which includes three primary members: L-selectin (SELL), E-selectin (SELE), and P-selectin (SELP). L-selectin plays a crucial role in immune surveillance and inflammatory responses, primarily facilitating the interaction between leukocytes (white blood cells) and endothelial cells. SELL is expressed constitutively on most leukocytes, including neutrophils, monocytes, T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells. It is essential for the initial steps of leukocyte extravasation, where leukocytes migrate from the bloodstream to peripheral tissues to respond to infection or injury. SELL mediates leukocyte rolling on the endothelium, an essential part of the immune cell recruitment cascade during inflammation and immune surveillance. It is involved in homing of lymphocytes to secondary lymphoid organs, such as lymph nodes, and facilitates the recruitment of leukocytes to sites of inflammation. SELL’s primary ligands include sialyl Lewis X (sLeX) and GlyCAM-1 (glycan-bearing cell adhesion molecule-1), which are expressed on endothelial cells. The role of L-selectin in trafficking leukocytes to lymphoid tissues is vital for maintaining immune homeostasis and responding to pathogens.