Deficiency of αII-spectrin affects endothelial cell-matrix contact and migration leading to impairment of angiogenesis in vitro.

Our data confirm the role of αII-spectrin in the control of cell adhesion and spreading. Moreover, our findings further support the participation of αII-spectrin in capillary tube formation in vitro through control of adhesion molecules, such as integrins. This indicates a new function of αII-spectrin in angiogenesis.