CD11a

CD11a is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGAL gene. It is also known as integrin alpha-L (ITGAL) and lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1). CD11a plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in the adhesion and migration of leukocytes.

Structure

CD11a is a type of integrin, a large family of proteins that mediate cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. It is composed of two different chains, alpha (CD11a) and beta (CD18), which combine to form the functional LFA-1 complex. The CD11a chain is approximately 180 kDa and contains a large extracellular domain, a single transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail.

Function

The primary function of CD11a is to mediate the adhesion of leukocytes (white blood cells) to endothelial cells, which line the interior surface of blood vessels. This adhesion is a critical step in the immune response, allowing leukocytes to exit the bloodstream and enter tissues where they can combat infection. CD11a also plays a role in the activation of T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune response.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the ITGAL gene, which encodes CD11a, can lead to a rare immunodeficiency disease known as Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-1 (LAD-1). This disease is characterized by recurrent bacterial and fungal infections, delayed wound healing, and impaired immune response. In addition, CD11a has been implicated in a number of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

See also

• Integrin
• Leukocyte
• Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-1
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus

References

CD11a Resources
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