Fibronectin, its role in the processes of tissue differentiation, regeneration and neoplastic transformation

The data from literature on certain biological and functional peculiarities of fibronectin which is a high molecular connective tissue glycoprotein of the intercellular matrix are reviewed. Various features of fibronectin, such as its promoting action in cell adhesion, participation in cytodifferentiation, embryogenesis and regeneration are discussed. Several points of view about fibronectin participation in neoplastic transformation are mentioned. Diagnostic and prognostic value of the quantitative and qualitative estimation of plasma fibronectin in the human tumour investigation are emphasized.