Integrin alpha8beta1 regulates adhesion, migration and proliferation of human intestinal crypt cells via a predominant RhoA/ROCK-dependent mechanism.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Integrins are transmembrane alphabeta heterodimer receptors that function as structural and functional bridges between the cytoskeleton and ECM (extracellular matrix) molecules. The RGD (arginine-glycine-aspartate tripeptide motif)-dependent integrin alpha8beta1 has been shown to be involved in various cell functions in neuronal and mesenchymal-derived cell types. Its role in epithelial cells remains unknown.

Results

Integrin alpha8beta1 was found to be expressed in the crypt cell population of the human intestine but was absent from differentiating and mature epithelial cells of the villus. The function of alpha8beta1 in epithelial crypt cells was investigated at the cellular level using normal HIECs (human intestinal epithelial cells). Specific knockdown of alph

SUBMITTER: Benoit YD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2782361 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature