LFA-1
Lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1), also known as CD11a/CD18 and αLβ2, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ITGAL and ITGB2 genes. LFA-1 is a member of the integrin superfamily and plays a critical role in adhesion and immune responses by mediating the interaction between lymphocytes and other cell types.
Structure[edit | edit source]
LFA-1 is a heterodimeric molecule consisting of two subunits: αL (CD11a) and β2 (CD18). The αL subunit is encoded by the ITGAL gene, while the β2 subunit is encoded by the ITGB2 gene. The αL subunit is approximately 180 kDa and contains a large extracellular domain, which is involved in binding to its ligands, a single transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail. The β2 subunit is roughly 95 kDa and also features a large extracellular domain, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tail.
Function[edit | edit source]
LFA-1 is primarily expressed on all leukocytes, including T cells, B cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. It is involved in a wide array of immune functions, including leukocyte activation, migration, and cytotoxic activity. LFA-1 interacts with its ligands, ICAM-1, ICAM-2, and ICAM-3, which are members of the immunoglobulin superfamily and are expressed on the surface of other cells such as endothelial cells and antigen-presenting cells.
This interaction is crucial for the immune system's ability to target and eliminate pathogens. For example, during the immune response, LFA-1 helps T cells adhere to the endothelium and migrate to sites of inflammation. It also facilitates the formation of the immunological synapse between T cells and antigen-presenting cells, which is essential for effective T cell activation and proliferation.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Alterations in LFA-1 function can lead to a variety of immune deficiencies and diseases. LFA-1 is a target for drug development, as modulating its activity can have therapeutic effects in conditions such as autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and in preventing transplant rejection.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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