Mouse Integrin Alpha 3 (ITGA3) Protein

Background

Integrin subunit alpha 3 (ITGA3) is part of the integrin family, which are heterodimeric transmembrane receptors crucial for mediating interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Integrins are essential for cell adhesion, migration, and signal transduction, contributing to various biological processes such as tissue repair, immune response, and embryonic development. ITGA3 pairs with integrin beta 1 (ITGB1) to form the α3β1 integrin, which serves as a receptor for laminin, fibronectin, and other ECM components, playing a vital role in cell adhesion and migration. ITGA3 is encoded by the ITGA3 gene, located on chromosome 17q21.33. The expression of ITGA3 is widespread, particularly in tissues such as epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and neurons. The α3β1 integrin is involved in important physiological processes like embryogenesis, angiogenesis, and wound healing, as well as in tumor metastasis and invasion in pathological conditions. In cancer biology, ITGA3 is often associated with tumor progression and can influence cellular invasiveness.