Adhesive glycoprotein with a high molecular weight (450 kD), composed of two disulfide‐linked polypeptides. Functional domains of the molecule have an affinity for cells and the extracellular matrix components. It is found on cell surfaces, in connective tissues, blood, and other body fluids. Fibronectins are important in connective tissue, where they cross‐link to collagen, promote cellular adhesion and/or migration, and are involved in aggregation of platelets.
An adhesive glycoprotein. One form circulates in plasma, acting as an opsonin; another is a cell-surface protein which mediates cellular adhesive interactions.
An adhesive glycoprotein that forms a link between the epithelial cells and the connective tissue matrix (essential for blood clotting). Research has indicated that fibronectin may solve the problem of getting new cells to stick to existing tissue, once a growth factor has caused them to grow (e.g., when growth factor is administered after a serious wound to tissue).
Blood or tissue protein that may indicate premature labor.
Any of a group of opsonic proteins present in blood plasma and extracellular matrix that are involved in wound healing and cell adhesion. The presence of fetal fibronectin in the cervical and vaginal secretions may be a marker for subsequent development of preterm labor.