1. Plural of laminin; a family of proteins found in the basement membrane that help cells attach to the extracellular matrix and support tissue structure.
Usage: technical; biology; biochemistry

Examples

• Laminins are essential components of the basement membrane in tissues throughout the body.
• Researchers studied how laminins interact with cell surface receptors called integrins.
• Mutations in genes encoding laminins can lead to muscular dystrophy and other genetic disorders.
• The laminins in the skin help anchor epithelial cells to the underlying connective tissue.
• Scientists use laminins in laboratory culture systems to promote cell adhesion and growth.