Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 17, 2026

Author Spotlight: Development of a Method for Identifying Small Molecular Antagonists of β2 Integrin Activation
Published on: February 2, 2024
Blood cell integrins and diseases
Abstract:
Integrins are adhesion molecules on the surface of cells. In blood cells they are responsible for rapid changes during adhesion of the cell to the endothelium. Deficiency or defective function of integrins will result in severe illnesses. Surprisingly, certain variants of integrins are associated with an increased risk of developing SLE. In autoimmune diseases and as a result of organ transplantations integrins participate in reactions in which leukocytes attack the body's own tissues. This has resulted in the development of drugs in antibody form for inhibition of the action of integrins. These drugs may, however, exhibit severe adverse effects.
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