Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2026

Modification and Functionalization of the Guanidine Group by Tailor-made Precursors
Published on: April 27, 2017
Beta3 integrins: major therapeutic targets of the near future
Elisabeth Schaffner-Reckinger1
1Laboratoire Franco-Luxembourgeois de Recherche Biomédicale (CNRS/GDRE-ITI) Centre Universitaire 162A, avenue de la Faïencerie, L-1511 Luxembourg.
Abstract:
Integrins are major cell adhesion receptors which assume two important functions: first they act as anchoring molecules allowing firm cellular attachment to the extracellular matrix, and second they work as signalling receptors being able to transduce signals in both directions (outside-in and inside-out) through the plasma membrane. Their biological importance is determined by their involvement in many physiological phenomena. Furthermore, their implication in various diseases and their accessibility to drugs make them interesting therapeutic targets.
Related Concept Videos
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
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,...
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.
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
Targets for Drug Action: Overview
Receptors are either membrane-spanning or intracellular proteins, which upon binding a ligand, get activated and transmit the signal downstream to elicit a response. Drugs bind receptors, either mimicking the action of endogenous ligands or blocking the receptor activity to bring about a modified response. Nearly 35% of approved drugs target the G...
Transducer Mechanism: Enzyme-Linked Receptors
Major types that are helpful drug targets include:

