ITGA9

ITGA9 (Integrin Subunit Alpha 9) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGA9 gene. This protein is a member of the integrin family and is involved in cell adhesion processes.

Function

The ITGA9 protein is an integral membrane protein that mediates adhesion of cells to the extracellular matrix. It is involved in various biological processes including cell migration, cell differentiation, and cell proliferation. The protein is also implicated in pathological processes such as cancer and inflammatory diseases.

Structure

The ITGA9 protein is a heterodimer, consisting of an alpha and a beta subunit. The alpha subunit is encoded by the ITGA9 gene, while the beta subunit is encoded by a different gene. The two subunits are non-covalently linked and together form the functional integrin molecule.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the ITGA9 gene have been associated with various diseases. For example, a mutation in this gene has been linked to glomerulonephritis, a type of kidney disease. Furthermore, overexpression of ITGA9 has been observed in certain types of cancer, suggesting a role in tumor progression.

See also

• Integrin
• Cell adhesion
• Cell migration