ITGA7

ITGA7 (Integrin Subunit Alpha 7) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGA7 gene. This protein is a member of the integrin family and is primarily expressed in skeletal muscle. The ITGA7 protein plays a crucial role in the development and physiological function of skeletal muscle.

Function

The ITGA7 protein is a receptor for laminin, an extracellular matrix protein. It is involved in cell adhesion and recognition in a variety of processes including embryogenesis, hemostasis, tissue repair, immune response and metastatic diffusion of tumor cells.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the ITGA7 gene are associated with congenital myopathy (muscle weakness) and are thought to cause some forms of muscular dystrophy. Research is ongoing to understand the role of ITGA7 in these conditions and to develop potential treatments.

See Also

• Integrin
• Laminin
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Myopathy