Which of the following is an example of an adhesive glycoprotein?

Adhesive glycoproteins play a critical role in cell adhesion, migration, and the overall organization of tissues. Fibronectin is indeed classified as an adhesive glycoprotein because it has multiple binding sites that facilitate the attachment of cells to the extracellular matrix (ECM) and other components within the ECM itself. This property makes fibronectin essential for processes such as wound healing and tissue repair, as it mediates interactions between cells and their surrounding environment.

Fibronectin is synthesized and secreted by various cell types and exists in both soluble and insoluble forms, contributing to the structural integrity of tissues. It aids in the formation of fibrin clots and provides pathways for cell migration during development and healing.

In contrast, collagen is primarily a structural protein that provides tensile strength to tissues, glycosaminoglycans are long unbranched polysaccharides that play critical roles in hydration and mechanical support, and elastin is responsible for the elasticity of tissues, allowing them to return to their original shape after being stretched. While these other options are vital components of the extracellular matrix, they do not possess the adhesive properties that characterize adhesive glycoproteins like fibronectin.