CD49a

CD49a is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGA1 gene. It is also known as Integrin alpha-1 or VLA-1 alpha chain. CD49a is a member of the integrin family and is involved in cell adhesion and cell-surface mediated signalling.

The structure of CD49a protein.

Function

CD49a is a receptor for collagen, laminin, fibronectin, and E-cadherin. It recognizes the proline-hydroxylated sequence G-F-P-G-E-R in collagen. It is a heterodimer of an alpha and a beta subunit. The alpha subunit is composed of an I domain, which is involved in ligand binding, and a large extracellular domain. The beta subunit is composed of a short extracellular domain and a cytoplasmic tail. The cytoplasmic tail is involved in downstream signalling events.

Clinical significance

CD49a has been implicated in various diseases including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory diseases. In cancer, it has been shown to promote tumor progression and metastasis. In autoimmune diseases, it has been shown to mediate leukocyte adhesion and migration, contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease. In inflammatory diseases, it has been shown to mediate the adhesion and migration of inflammatory cells, contributing to the inflammatory response.

Research

Research is ongoing to develop therapies targeting CD49a. These therapies aim to inhibit the function of CD49a, thereby preventing the adhesion and migration of cells that contribute to disease progression.

See also

• Integrin
• Collagen
• Laminin
• Fibronectin
• E-cadherin