Extracellular matrix adhesion receptor (ECM receptor)

Extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion receptors are a diverse group of transmembrane proteins that mediate the physical attachment of cells to the surrounding matrix and facilitate bidirectional signaling between the intracellular and extracellular environments [Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 2021; NIH, 2011]. The most prominent members of this class are the integrins, which are heterodimeric receptors composed of alpha and beta subunits that recognize specific motifs, such as the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence, in ECM proteins like collagen, fibronectin, and laminin [Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 2021; NIH, 2018]. Other important receptors include discoidin domain receptors (DDRs), syndecans, and CD44 [NIH, 2011; Tocris Bioscience]. These receptors play critical roles in regulating cell survival, proliferation, migration, and differentiation by integrating mechanical cues and biochemical signals [Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 2021; MDPI, 2024]. Dysregulation of ECM adhesion receptors is a hallmark of many diseases, including cancer metastasis, where they promote tumor cell invasion and angiogenesis, as well as inflammatory and fibrotic disorders [Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 2021; NIH, 2025; Tocris Bioscience]. Consequently, they have become significant therapeutic targets, with several approved drugs successfully modulating their activity to treat cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune conditions, and chronic inflammation [NIH, 2009; NIH, 1998].

Other names

Cell-matrix adhesion receptorECM receptorIntegrinCell adhesion molecule (CAM)

Competitive inhibition of ligand binding to the extracellular domain (e.g., RGD-mimetics), allosteric modulation of receptor conformation to prevent activation, and blocking of receptor-cytoskeleton interactions to inhibit downstream signaling pathways like FAK/Src [Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 2021; NIH, 2009].