The function of integrins are to act as transmembrane linkers (or “integrators”), mediating the interactions between the cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix which are required for the cells to grip the matrix.
Integrins regulate cellular growth, proliferation, migration, signaling, and cytokine activation and release and thereby play important roles in cell proliferation and migration, apoptosis, tissue repair, as well as in all processes critical to inflammation, infection, and angiogenesis.
Cell surface receptors for the extracellular matrix (ECM), such as the integrins, play key roles in the regulation of normal and tumour cell migration and survival.
The integrin family of cell adhesion proteins controls cell attachment to the ECM.
Integrins are the principal receptors used by animal cells to bind to the extracellular matrix.
They are heterodimers and function as transmembrane linkers between the extracellular matrix and the actin cytoskeleton.
A cell can regulate the adhesive activity of its integrins from within.
Integrins are formed through noncovalent association of two type I transmembrane glycoproteins, the α- and the β subunit.
The extracellular parts are approximately 700 amino acids for α - and 1000 amino acids for β subunits and form elongated stalks and a globular ligand-binding head region6.
Examples of integrin ligands are ICAM-1, which is present at the plasma membrane of antigen-presenting cells and binds to the integrin receptor LFA-1 to promote cell–cell adhesion.
Mutations in integrin genes are associated with various human disorders, including epidermolysis bullosa with pyloric atresia, congenital muscular dystrophy, leukocyte adhesion deficiency, and Glanzmann's thrombasthenia.
The epidermal integrins can bind numerous ligands present in the provisional wound ECM, including fibronectin (α5β1, α9β1, αvβ6), vitronectin (αvβ5), and tenascin (α9β1, αvβ6), as well as laminin-332 (α3β1, α6β4) that is deposited by migrating keratinocytes.
Integrin activation in leukocytes is a central event in many leukocyte processes.
Leukocyte integrins are key elements for both innate and adaptive immune responses, which have emerged as promising therapeutic targets for patients with inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
Genetic and other disorders which are caused by mutations in human DNA include.
Genetic Disorders. Sickle Cell Disease.
Cystic fibrosis. Cystic Fibrosis Liver Disease.
Brain, Nerves and Spine. Huntington's Disease.
Cleft lip and palate. Cleft Lip and Palate.