PECAM1

Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM-1), also known as CD31, is a 130-kDa transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily. Predominantly expressed on vascular endothelial cells, platelets, and leukocytes, it mediates cell-cell adhesion through homophilic interactions and regulates leukocyte transmigration across endothelial barriers. PECAM-1 modulates intracellular signaling via immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs), influencing pathways such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and Src-family kinase cascades. It plays critical roles in angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and inflammatory responses. Dysregulation of PECAM-1 has been implicated in atherosclerosis, thrombosis, sepsis, and tumor angiogenesis. Recent studies explore its therapeutic potential in inflammatory diseases and cancer, with anti-PECAM-1 antibodies and nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems under preclinical investigation. Notably, PECAM-1-targeted therapies aim to mitigate endothelial dysfunction while enhancing site-specific drug accumulation in vascular pathologies.