ITGAE
Integrins: Gatekeepers of Cellular Adhesion and Signaling
Description
Integrins are a family of cell surface receptors that play a critical role in cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. They are composed of two transmembrane protein subunits, alpha and beta, which combine to form heterodimeric complexes. Integrins are responsible for anchoring cells to the extracellular matrix, providing structural support and regulating a wide range of cellular processes, including adhesion, migration, differentiation, and signaling.
Associated Diseases
Dysregulation of integrin function has been implicated in various diseases, including:
- Cancer: Integrins promote tumor cell adhesion, migration, and invasion, contributing to metastasis.
- Inflammatory diseases: Integrins mediate leukocyte adhesion to endothelial cells, facilitating inflammation.
- Cardiovascular diseases: Integrins are involved in platelet aggregation and thrombosis.
- Autoimmune disorders: Integrins contribute to immune cell adhesion and activation, playing a role in autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Did you Know ?
Research suggests that approximately 20% of all human genes encode proteins that interact with integrins, highlighting their widespread importance in cellular processes.
