[1][2] Cytoskeleton contraction and extension, controlled by various polarized signals, helps propel the cell body forward.
[1][3][4][5] Leukocyte polarization is an important requirement for migration, activation and apoptosis in the adaptive and innate immune systems; most leukocytes, including monocytes, granulocytes, and T and B lymphocytes migrate to and from primary and secondary lymphoid organs to tissues to initiate immune responses to pathogens.
[5][3] Though research is ongoing, many cell signals and mechanisms are known to play a part in uropod formation and retraction.
[5][4][1] Cyclic GMP and AMP have been shown to affect uropod formation, and are generally important for cell polarization and chemotaxis.
[5] Uropod membranes generally have high density of CD43 and CD44 and adhesion receptors (ICAM-1, ICAM-3, B1 integrins, and ERM adaptor proteins).