ITGA2
Description
The ITGA2 (integrin subunit alpha 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 5.
Integrin alpha-2, or CD49b (cluster of differentiation 49b), is a protein encoded by the CD49b gene in humans. It is an integrin alpha subunit, forming half of the α2β1 integrin duplex. Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane glycoproteins composed of a distinct alpha chain and a common beta chain, found on various cell types like T cells (NKT cells), NK cells, fibroblasts, and platelets. They participate in cell adhesion and cell-surface-mediated signaling. The expression of CD49b with LAG-3 identifies type 1 regulatory (Tr1) cells. The DX5 monoclonal antibody recognizes mouse CD49b. CD49b interacts with MMP1.
Integrin alpha-2/beta-1 functions as a receptor for several extracellular matrix components, including laminin, collagen, collagen C-propeptides, fibronectin, and E-cadherin. It specifically binds to the proline-hydroxylated sequence G-F-P-G-E-R within collagen. This interaction enables the adhesion of platelets and other cells to collagen, influences the regulation of collagen and collagenase gene expression, contributes to force generation, and plays a role in organizing newly synthesized extracellular matrix.
ITGA2 is also known as BR, CD49B, GPIa, HPA-5, VLA-2, VLAA2.
