Integrin beta subunit (ITGB) (ITGB)

Integrin beta subunits are a family of transmembrane receptors that non-covalently pair with alpha subunits to form functional integrin heterodimers [1]. These receptors are crucial for mediating cell-to-cell and cell-to-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion, serving as both mechanical links and signal transducers [2]. They facilitate "inside-out" signaling, which regulates the affinity of the integrin for its ligands, and "outside-in" signaling, which influences cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation [3]. In clinical medicine, specific beta subunits are targeted to treat diverse conditions, such as Integrin beta-3 (ITGB3) for preventing thrombosis in coronary interventions [5]. Additionally, Integrin beta-7 (ITGB7) and beta-1 (ITGB1) are targeted to manage inflammatory and autoimmune disorders by blocking leukocyte trafficking to specific tissues [4]. Dysregulation of these subunits is also heavily implicated in cancer progression, particularly in promoting metastasis and tumor angiogenesis [6]. Therapeutic strategies primarily involve monoclonal antibodies or small molecules that competitively inhibit ligand binding to the integrin's extracellular domain [4]. Despite their therapeutic utility, targeting beta-integrins carries significant risks such as impaired wound healing, bleeding, or increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections [6].

Other names

CD29 (Beta-1)CD18 (Beta-2)CD61 (Beta-3)ITGB1ITGB2ITGB3ITGB4ITGB5ITGB6ITGB7ITGB8Beta-integrin

Antagonism of heterodimeric integrin receptors to inhibit ligand binding (such as fibrinogen, VCAM-1, or MAdCAM-1) and block downstream signaling pathways [4, 5].