Integrins belong to the family of cellular adhesion molecules (CAM) and act as specialized receptors that mediate the interactions between basal epithelial cells and the extracellular matrix.
A family of transmembrane glycoproteins consisting of noncovalent heterodimers. They interact with a wide variety of ligands including extracellular matrix glycoproteins, complement, and other cells, while their intracellular domains interact with the cytoskeleton. The integrins consist of at least three identified families: the cytoadhesin receptors, the leukocyte adhesion receptors, and the very-late-antigen receptors. Each family contains a common beta-subunit combined with one or more distinct alpha-subunits. These receptors participate in cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion in many physiologically important processes, including embryological development, hemostasis, thrombosis, wound healing, immune and nonimmune defense mechanisms, and oncogenic transformation.
A class of proteins that is found on the surface (membranes) of cells, and that function as cellular adhesion receptors. For example, integrin avBs is a receptor on the surface of endothelial cells in tumors. It binds angiogenic endothelial cells, enabling them to form new blood vessels.
Receptor on the cell membrane that binds with various proteins and chemicals as a form of cell-to-cell communication.
A polypeptide receptor of cell membranes that is involved in intercellular communication and adhesion.