ITGA6

ITGA6 (Integrin Subunit Alpha 6) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGA6 gene. This protein is a member of the integrin family and is primarily found on the surface of epithelial cells.

Function

The ITGA6 protein is a part of the integrin alpha chain family. Integrins are integral cell-surface proteins composed of an alpha chain and a beta chain. The protein encoded by this gene is an alpha subunit. It pairs with the beta 4 subunit to form the alpha6beta4 integrin. This integrin is found on the surface of epithelial cells where it plays a role in the binding of the cell to the extracellular matrix (ECM), and in the signaling from the ECM to the cell.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the ITGA6 gene have been associated with epidermolysis bullosa, a group of genetic conditions that cause the skin to be very fragile and to blister easily. In addition, the ITGA6 protein has been implicated in the progression of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer and prostate cancer.

See also

• Integrin
• Epidermolysis bullosa
• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer

External links

• ITGA6 at the National Center for Biotechnology Information