Studies on extracellular matrix proteins, cells, and genetically modified animals have
converged to reveal mechanisms of basement membrane self-assembly as mediated by γ1
subunit-containing laminins, the focus of this chapter. The basic model is as follows: A
member of the laminin family adheres to a competent cell surface and typically polymerizes
followed by laminin binding to the extracellular adaptor proteins nidogen, perlecan, and
agrin. Assembly is completed by the linking of nidogen and heparan sulfates to type IV …