Integrins in development: moving on, responding to, and sticking to the extracellular matrix
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 29, 2026

2D and 3D Matrices to Study Linear Invadosome Formation and Activity
Published on: June 2, 2017
Christian Bökel1, Nicholas H Brown
1Department of Anatomy, Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QR, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Integrins are cell surface receptors of the extracellular matrix present in all animals. Genetic analysis in worms, flies, and vertebrates has revealed integrin involvement in key developmental processes, and we focus here on examples of integrin functions that are comparable across these model organisms. Integrins contribute to cell movement by providing traction to migrating cells, through assembly of extracellular matrices that can serve as tracks for migration, and by transmitting guidance signals that direct cells or cell processes to their targets. Integrins also participate in signaling events that govern tissue differentiation and organogenesis. Finally, adhesion by integrin-mediated junctions allows tissues to withstand mechanical load and is essential for tissue integrity.
Related Concept Videos
Activation of Integrins
In "outside-in signaling," external factors in the extracellular space bind to exposed ligand binding sites on integrins. This causes the inactive protein to undergo a conformational change to become active. Integrins are often clustered on the cell membrane. Repetitive and regularly spaced ligand binding events provide an effective stimulus.
Integrins
Some ECM proteins assemble into a basement membrane to which the remaining components adhere. Proteoglycans typically form the bulk of the ECM while fibrous proteins, like collagen,...
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces
Anchoring junctions mechanically attach a cell to the...
Overview of Cell-Matrix Interactions
Anchoring Junctions

