Nectins and nectin-like molecules (Necls): Recent findings and their role and regulation in spermatogenesis

Nectins and nectin-like molecules (Necls) belong to Ca2+-independent immunoglobulin superfamily of cell adhesion molecules and they are ubiquitously expressed in most tissues. They not only interact in trans-homo and trans-hetero with others, but also interact in cis with growth factor receptors and integrins. Owning to these properties, nectins and Necls exert their role far beyond cell-cell adhesion. Nectins and Necls are crucial for various cellular processes not limited to cell movement, cell proliferation and polarization. They are involved in organogenesis and developmental processes such as spermatogenesis. This review aims to provide an overview and highlight some recent findings on nectins and Necls in the field with emphasis on studies in the testis, upon which future studies can be designed to delineate the role and regulation of nectins and Necls in spermatogenesis.