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Tenascin-C: Its functions as an integrin ligand
Richard P Tucker1, Ruth Chiquet-Ehrismann2
1Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California at Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
Abstract:
This review summarizes the experimental evidence of tenascin-C/integrin interactions, emphasizing the identification of integrin binding sites and the effects of specific interactions on cell behavior. At least four integrins appear to bind to the third fibronectin-type 3 domain of tenascin-C: α9β1, αVβ3, α8β1 and αVβ6. The α9β1 integrin recognizes a highly conserved IDG motif in this domain, while the others recognize an RGD motif. There is also significant evidence that the collagen receptor α2β1 can bind to tenascin-C, but the interacting site is unknown. Tenascin-C interactions with α9β1 and αVβ3 can promote cell proliferation and interactions with αVβ3 can also inhibit apoptosis. Interactions with α7β1 integrin, which may bind to the alternatively spliced domain of tenascin-C, and α9β1 integrin are able to influence the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into the neuronal lineage. This illustrates the potential for using our knowledge of tenascins and their integrin receptors in stem cell-based therapies.
Insights
Tenascin-C interacts with specific integrins, influencing cell behavior like proliferation and differentiation. This knowledge holds potential for stem cell therapies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Tenascin-C is a key extracellular matrix protein involved in cell adhesion and migration.
- Integrins are cell surface receptors that mediate cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experimental evidence on tenascin-C and integrin interactions.
- To identify integrin binding sites on tenascin-C.
- To understand the impact of these interactions on cell behavior.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental studies on tenascin-C/integrin interactions.
- Analysis of identified integrin binding sites and motifs (IDG, RGD).
- Summary of observed cellular responses to tenascin-C/integrin binding.
Main Results:
- Four integrins (α9β1, αVβ3, α8β1, αVβ6) bind to tenascin-C's third fibronectin type III domain.
- α9β1 recognizes an IDG motif; others recognize an RGD motif.
- Tenascin-C interactions with integrins promote cell proliferation, inhibit apoptosis, and influence stem cell differentiation.
Conclusions:
- Specific tenascin-C/integrin interactions modulate critical cellular functions.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
- Potential applications exist in stem cell-based therapies, particularly for neuronal differentiation.
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