Recombinant Proteins
Product List
ITGB1 Human
Integrin Beta 1 Human Recombinant
ITGB1 Human, Sf9
Integrin Beta 1 Human Recombinant, Sf9
ITGB1BP3 Human
Integrin Beta 1 Binding Protein 3 Human Recombinant
ITGB3BP Human
Integrin Beta 3 Binding Protein Human Recombinant
ITGB4 Human
Integrin Beta 4 Human Recombinant
Introduction
Integrins are a large family of transmembrane receptors that facilitate cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion. They are heterodimeric proteins composed of alpha (α) and beta (β) subunits. In humans, there are 18 α and 8 β subunits, which combine to form at least 24 distinct integrin heterodimers . These receptors play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including signal transduction, cell migration, and the maintenance of cell structure .
Key Biological Properties: Integrins are involved in bidirectional signaling, meaning they can transmit signals from the ECM to the cell interior and vice versa . This signaling is essential for cellular responses to the external environment.
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Integrins are ubiquitously expressed across various tissues. Different integrin subunits are expressed in specific patterns, contributing to the unique functions of each integrin heterodimer. For example, integrin α5β1 is predominantly found in fibroblasts and endothelial cells, while integrin αIIbβ3 is primarily expressed in platelets .
Primary Biological Functions: Integrins mediate cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. They are essential for the formation of stable cell-ECM interactions, which are critical for tissue integrity and repair .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: Integrins play a significant role in the immune system by facilitating the migration of leukocytes to sites of infection or injury. They also participate in the recognition and binding of pathogens, aiding in the immune response .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Integrins interact with various ECM proteins such as fibronectin, collagen, and laminin. These interactions are crucial for the activation of intracellular signaling pathways .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: Upon binding to their ligands, integrins cluster and recruit cytoplasmic proteins like talin and kindlin, which link integrins to the actin cytoskeleton. This clustering activates signaling pathways such as the MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and Rho GTPase pathways, which regulate cell survival, proliferation, and migration .
Expression and Activity Control: Integrin expression is tightly regulated at the transcriptional level by various transcription factors. Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation and glycosylation, also modulate integrin activity and affinity for ligands .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: Specific transcription factors, including NF-κB and AP-1, regulate the expression of integrin genes. Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation by kinases, can alter integrin conformation and function .
Biomedical Research: Integrins are extensively studied in cancer research due to their role in tumor cell migration and invasion. They are also investigated in cardiovascular diseases and wound healing .
Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies: Integrins serve as biomarkers for various diseases and are targets for therapeutic interventions. Integrin inhibitors and antibodies are being developed for the treatment of conditions like thrombosis, cancer, and inflammatory diseases .
Development to Aging and Disease: Integrins are vital throughout the life cycle, from embryonic development to aging. During development, they regulate cell migration and tissue formation. In adults, they maintain tissue homeostasis and repair. Dysregulation of integrin function is associated with various diseases, including cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmune disorders .
