Cd11a

Protein involved in the immune response

CD11a is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGAL gene. It is a type of integrin that plays a crucial role in the immune system by mediating the adhesion of leukocytes to other cells. CD11a is part of the integrin alpha L chain and pairs with the integrin beta 2 chain (CD18) to form the LFA-1 (lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1) complex.

Structure

CD11a is a member of the integrin family, which are transmembrane receptors that facilitate cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion. Integrins are heterodimeric proteins consisting of alpha and beta subunits. The alpha L subunit (CD11a) pairs with the beta 2 subunit (CD18) to form the LFA-1 complex.

Function

The primary function of CD11a is to mediate the adhesion of leukocytes to other cells, which is essential for the immune response. CD11a, as part of the LFA-1 complex, binds to intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) on the surface of endothelial cells and antigen-presenting cells. This interaction is critical for T cell activation and migration, as well as for the formation of the immunological synapse.

Clinical Significance

Mutations or deficiencies in CD11a can lead to leukocyte adhesion deficiency (LAD), a rare immunodeficiency disorder characterized by recurrent infections and impaired wound healing. CD11a is also a target for therapeutic interventions in various autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions.

Research Applications

CD11a is widely used as a marker in flow cytometry to identify and isolate leukocytes. It is also a target for monoclonal antibodies used in research and clinical settings to modulate immune responses.

Related Pages

• Integrin
• Leukocyte
• LFA-1
• ICAM-1
• Immune system
• T cell
• Leukocyte adhesion deficiency