Laminin-binding proteins in EJ-ras-transformed fibroblasts

Malignant transformation is accompanied by changes in cell-matrix interations. Upon transfection with EJ-ras oncogene, transformed fibroblasts, acquired a migratory phenotype towards laminin-1. The increase in integrin expression was responsible for the migratory activity of transformed fibroblasts. In addition alpha(6)beta(1) integrins, both galectin-3 and an unidentified laminin-binding polypeptide had their expression pattern altered upon transformation. Here, we review these two classes of laminin-binding proteins and their possible roles in cell-laminin interactions.