ITGA2

ITGA2 (Integrin Alpha 2) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGA2 gene. This gene is a member of the integrin family and encodes a protein composed of an alpha chain and a beta chain. Integrins are important in linking the extracellular matrix to the cytoskeleton and are involved in a wide range of cellular processes including cell adhesion, signaling, and migration.

Function

The ITGA2 protein is part of the integrin alpha chain family. Integrins are heterodimeric integral membrane proteins composed of an alpha chain and a beta chain. This particular integrin, alpha 2, pairs with the beta 1 chain (ITGB1) to form a collagen-binding integrin known as alpha 2 beta 1. This integrin, alpha 2 beta 1, is a major receptor for collagen types I, II, and III, and it plays a critical role in the regulation of cell adhesion and recognition in a variety of processes including embryogenesis, hemostasis, tissue repair, immune response, and metastatic diffusion of tumor cells.

Gene

The ITGA2 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 5 at position 23.3, from base pair 158,697,063 to base pair 158,787,392 (5q23.3).

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression of the ITGA2 gene have been associated with a variety of diseases, including cancer, fibrosis, and thrombophilia. Due to its role in cell adhesion and migration, ITGA2 is considered a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of these conditions. For example, overexpression of ITGA2 has been observed in certain types of cancer, suggesting its involvement in tumor metastasis.

See Also

• Integrin
• Cell adhesion
• Extracellular matrix
• Cytokeleton