Role of alpha(v)beta(3)-integrin in TNF-alpha-induced endothelial cell migration.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), one of the major inflammatory cytokines, is known to influence endothelial cell migration. In this study, we demonstrate that exposure of calf pulmonary artery endothelial cells to TNF-alpha caused an increase in the formation of membrane protrusions and cell migration. Fluorescence microscopy revealed an increase in alpha(v)beta(3) focal contacts but a decrease in alpha(5)beta(1) focal contacts in TNF-alpha-treated cells.

TNF-alpha disruption of lung endothelial integrity: reduced integrin mediated adhesion to fibronectin.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) causes an increase in transendothelial protein permeability of confluent monolayers of calf pulmonary artery endothelial (CPAE) cells, and the addition of plasma fibronectin (pFn) to the culture medium can attenuate this increase in permeability. We determined if reduced integrin function had a role in decreased endothelial cell adhesion to immobilized Fn after exposure of the endothelial monolayers to TNF-alpha. TNF-alpha also causes a reorganization of the subendothelial Fn rich matrix and a significant loss in RGD-dependent adhesion of TNF-alpha treated CPAE cells to pFn coated surfaces.