Integrin alpha 3

Ideogram human chromosome 17

Integrin alpha 3 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGA3 gene. Integrin alpha 3 is a part of the integrin family, which are transmembrane receptors involved in the attachment of a cell to the extracellular matrix (ECM) or to other cells. Integrins are composed of an alpha chain and a beta chain, and they are important for cell-cell and cell-matrix signaling and adhesion.

Function

Integrin alpha 3 forms a heterodimer with a beta 1 chain, creating the integrin alpha 3 beta 1 complex. This complex is expressed in many tissues and is involved in various cellular functions including cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. It plays a significant role in the maintenance of the epithelial layer integrity, wound healing, and angiogenesis. The integrin alpha 3 beta 1 complex binds to a wide array of ECM proteins, including fibronectin, laminin, and collagen.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the ITGA3 gene have been associated with various diseases, including Epidermolysis Bullosa, a group of genetic conditions that result in skin fragility and blistering. Studies have also suggested a role for integrin alpha 3 in cancer progression, particularly in the context of tumor metastasis and invasion. Its expression levels have been correlated with prognosis in certain types of cancer, making it a potential target for therapeutic intervention.

Gene

The ITGA3 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 17 at position 23.3, spanning approximately 47 kilobases. The gene encodes a protein of 1,051 amino acids. The regulation of its expression is complex and involves various transcription factors and signaling pathways that respond to environmental cues.

Structure

The integrin alpha 3 protein is composed of a large extracellular domain, a single transmembrane segment, and a short cytoplasmic tail. The extracellular domain is responsible for binding to ECM proteins, while the cytoplasmic tail interacts with various intracellular signaling molecules. This interaction is crucial for the transmission of signals from the ECM to the inside of the cell, influencing cellular responses.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on elucidating the detailed mechanisms by which integrin alpha 3 mediates its effects on cell behavior and how its dysfunction contributes to disease. Additionally, the development of drugs targeting integrin alpha 3 is an area of interest, particularly for the treatment of cancer and fibrotic diseases.