What is the function of integrins in implantation?
They participate in cell-cell adhesion as well as in adhesion between cells and components of the extracellular matrix, and they play an important role in the endometrial phenotype change that occurs during the secretory phase, the first stage of implantation.
What are integrin ligands?
Immunologically important integrin ligands are the inter-cellular adhesion molecules (ICAMs), immunoglobulin superfamily members present on inflamed endothelium and antigen-presenting cells. Integrins are broadly grouped into four categories based on their ligand-specificity (reviewed in [2]):
What is integrin biology?
Integrins are the principal receptors used by animal cells to bind to the extracellular matrix. They are heterodimers and function as transmembrane linkers between the extracellular matrix and the actin cytoskeleton. A cell can regulate the adhesive activity of its integrins from within.
What does the trophoblast differentiate into?
Trophoblasts are cells that form the outer layer of a blastocyst, which provides nutrients to the embryo, and then develop into a large part of the placenta.
Where is integrin found?
Integrins are found in all animals while integrin-like receptors are found in plant cells. Integrins work alongside other proteins such as cadherins, the immunoglobulin superfamily cell adhesion molecules, selectins and syndecans, to mediate cell–cell and cell–matrix interaction.
Where is integrin found in the body?
The β3 integrins are found on a variety of cells, including blood platelets. They bind several matrix proteins, including fibrinogen. Platelets interact with fibrinogen during blood clotting, and humans with Glanzmann’s disease, who are genetically deficient in β3 integrins, bleed excessively.
How many integrins are there?
24 different integrins
The members of the human integrin superfamily and how they combine to form heterodimeric integrins. At least 18 α subunits and eight β subunits have been identified in humans, which are able to generate 24 different integrins. Integrin subunits that bind to each other to form a heterodimer are connected by solid lines.