Human Integrin Alpha-L (ITGAL) Protein

Background

Integrin subunit alpha L (ITGAL), also known as CD11a, is a protein encoded by the ITGAL gene in humans. This protein forms a part of the integrin family, which is a group of cell surface receptors that mediate various biological processes, including immune cell adhesion, migration, and signaling. ITGAL pairs with the integrin beta-2 subunit (CD18) to form the LFA-1 (lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1), a heterodimeric receptor crucial for immune responses. ITGAL’s primary role is in the immune system, where it facilitates cell-cell adhesion during the immune response, helping lymphocytes, neutrophils, and other leukocytes adhere to other cells, such as endothelial cells, antigen-presenting cells, and target cells. This integrin is particularly critical in the homing, trafficking, and activation of immune cells, including T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and neutrophils. ITGAL mediates interactions between leukocytes and the vascular endothelium by binding to intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAMs), which are vital for immune surveillance and the body's response to infection and inflammation.