Integrin alphaEbeta7 Heterodimer

Integrin alphaEbeta7 is a heterodimeric cell surface receptor composed of integrin alpha E (ITGAE/CD103) and integrin beta 7 (ITGB7) subunits. It mediates adhesion between lymphocytes and epithelial cells via E-cadherin, playing a crucial role in immune surveillance within mucosal tissues by facilitating T cell retention and localization. While primarily expressed on intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs), it is also found on some regulatory T cells and dendritic cells. CD103 expression serves as a diagnostic marker for hairy cell leukemia. The integrin's activation involves conformational changes that regulate ligand binding, influencing cell migration, activation, proliferation, and survival. Therapeutic targeting poses safety challenges due to potential immunosuppression and disruption of mucosal immune homeostasis.

Other names

CD103ITGAE/ITGB7

Targeting alphaEbeta7 could inhibit lymphocyte adhesion to epithelial cells, reducing inflammation and immune cell infiltration in target tissues. Blocking the interaction between alphaEbeta7 and E-cadherin may disrupt immune homeostasis in the gut mucosa or other epithelial barriers.