Integrin

Integrins are a family of transmembrane receptors that mediate the adhesion between cells and the extracellular matrix, playing a crucial role in cell signaling, migration, proliferation, and survival. Each integrin is a heterodimer composed of alpha and beta subunits, which together determine ligand specificity and cellular responses. By linking the extracellular matrix to the cell's cytoskeleton, integrins transmit mechanical and chemical signals that regulate cellular behavior. Dysregulation of integrin signaling is associated with numerous pathological conditions, including cancer, inflammatory diseases, and thrombosis. As such, integrins are significant targets for drug development, with therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating their activity to treat disease while minimizing impact on normal cell function.