integrin alpha6-beta1 complex

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

An integrin complex that comprises one alpha6 subunit and one beta1 subunit. [PMID:12297042]

The integrin alpha6-beta1 complex is a heterodimeric transmembrane receptor that plays a crucial role in cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. It is a key player in various cellular processes, including adhesion, migration, signaling, and differentiation. The cellular component of the integrin alpha6-beta1 complex can be described as follows:

**Extracellular Domain:**

* **Alpha6 subunit:** The alpha6 subunit possesses a large extracellular domain that interacts with the laminin-511/521/332 isoforms of the extracellular matrix. It features a globular head region that binds to the laminin-511/521/332 isoforms, a thigh domain, a calf-1 domain, a calf-2 domain, and a beta-propeller domain.
* **Beta1 subunit:** The beta1 subunit also has a substantial extracellular domain that is responsible for interacting with the alpha6 subunit and forming the heterodimer. It contains a beta-propeller domain, a hybrid domain, a linker region, a PSI domain, and a transmembrane domain.

**Transmembrane Domain:**

* **Alpha6 subunit:** The alpha6 subunit has a single transmembrane domain that anchors the protein to the plasma membrane.
* **Beta1 subunit:** The beta1 subunit also has a single transmembrane domain that is responsible for integrating the complex into the cell membrane.

**Cytoplasmic Domain:**

* **Alpha6 subunit:** The cytoplasmic domain of the alpha6 subunit is relatively short and does not directly interact with intracellular signaling pathways.
* **Beta1 subunit:** The cytoplasmic domain of the beta1 subunit is larger and contains several important functional motifs. It interacts with intracellular signaling proteins, such as talin, kindlin, and integrin-linked kinase (ILK), to mediate signal transduction pathways that regulate cell adhesion, migration, and cytoskeletal organization.

**Association with Other Proteins:**

* **Talin:** This protein binds to the beta1 cytoplasmic domain and plays a crucial role in activating the integrin complex, enabling it to bind to the extracellular matrix.
* **Kindlin:** Another protein that binds to the beta1 cytoplasmic domain, kindlin acts in synergy with talin to enhance integrin activation and promote adhesion.
* **Integrin-linked kinase (ILK):** This protein binds to the beta1 cytoplasmic domain and is involved in various signaling pathways, including those associated with cell survival, proliferation, and migration.

**Cellular Localization:**

* The integrin alpha6-beta1 complex is predominantly expressed on the cell surface, particularly in epithelial cells, where it plays a vital role in cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions.

**Biological Functions:**

* **Cell adhesion:** The integrin alpha6-beta1 complex mediates cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix, particularly to laminin-511/521/332 isoforms.
* **Cell migration:** This complex plays a crucial role in cell migration by providing traction for cells to move and by signaling pathways that control cell motility.
* **Cell signaling:** The integrin alpha6-beta1 complex can initiate intracellular signaling pathways that regulate cell growth, differentiation, and survival.
* **Tissue development:** This complex is essential for normal tissue development and function, particularly in epithelial tissues.

**Clinical Significance:**

* Mutations in the alpha6 or beta1 subunits have been linked to several human diseases, including epidermolysis bullosa, a group of genetic skin disorders characterized by blistering, and various types of cancer.

Overall, the integrin alpha6-beta1 complex is a critical component of the cellular machinery responsible for maintaining cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions, playing a vital role in a wide range of biological processes and having important implications for human health.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (17)