Lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 receptor (LFA-1)

Lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 receptor is a heterodimeric integrin receptor (αLβ2; CD11a/CD18) expressed predominantly on lymphocytes and other leukocytes. It mediates adhesion, migration, and signal transduction essential for immune cell interactions, including attachment to intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAMs), formation of the immune synapse, and transendothelial migration. LFA-1 achieves regulated affinity for its ligands via conformational changes in its extracellular domains, particularly through the metal-ion dependent adhesion site (MIDAS) located within the I-domain of the αL subunit. Dysfunction or modulation of LFA-1 impacts immune responses in inflammation, autoimmune disease, infection, and cancer. Drugs targeting LFA-1, such as efalizumab and lifitegrast, aim to modulate immune cell adhesion, but have faced safety concerns, notably serious infections from immune suppression.

Other names

CD11a/CD18αLβ2-integrinLeukocyte function-associated antigen 1

Blockade/inhibition of LFA-1 binding to ICAMs, preventing immune cell adhesion and activation; Modulation of LFA-1 affinity and conformational state to regulate immune cell trafficking and function