Integrin subunit beta 8 (ITGB8) receptor (ITGB8)

Integrin subunit beta 8 (ITGB8) is a transmembrane protein that pairs exclusively with the alpha-V subunit to form the alpha-V beta-8 integrin receptor. Unlike many other integrins that primarily facilitate cell adhesion and cytoskeletal organization, the primary biological role of alpha-V beta-8 is the localized activation of latent Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-beta) 1 and 3 [1, 2]. This activation is a critical regulatory step in controlling immune responses, tissue repair, and neurovascular integrity. In the context of oncology, ITGB8 is frequently overexpressed in various solid tumors, where it promotes an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by releasing active TGF-beta, which inhibits cytotoxic T-cell activity and promotes immune evasion [2, 5]. Consequently, ITGB8 has emerged as a high-priority therapeutic target for overcoming resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Current drug development efforts include monoclonal antibodies designed to block TGF-beta activation and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) intended to selectively eliminate ITGB8-expressing tumor cells [3, 4]. Beyond cancer, ITGB8 is also implicated in fibrotic conditions and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to its central role in TGF-beta signaling pathways [1].

Other names

ITGB8Integrin subunit beta 8Integrin beta-8

Inhibition of latent TGF-beta activation; Antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) mediated cell killing; Blockade of alpha-V beta-8 integrin-ligand interaction