integrins

April 15, 2021

New insights into kidney development

Integrin-linked kinase, a central component of a complex that coordinates cell signaling involved in migration, proliferation and cell death, plays a role in kidney development and epithelial cell function.

By Bill Snyder
July 30, 2020

Protein study may be key to treating fibrotic diseases

A protein linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease that causes muscle weakness, may be a key to treating fibrotic disease of the kidneys and other organs, researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center reported recently.

By Bill Snyder
February 6, 2020

Team tracks integrin’s role in lung function

Beta-1 integrin, a critical component of epithelial extracellular matrix receptors, is essential for normal lung function in adulthood, researchers at VUMC have discovered.

By Bill Snyder
autism concept: puzzle
November 16, 2017

Study may point to new treatment approach for ASD

Using sophisticated genome mining and gene manipulation techniques, researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) have solved a mystery that could lead to a new treatment approach for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

By Bill Snyder
Close-up of a woolen knitted texture (blue)
January 19, 2017

Surprising finding by VU team sheds light on fibrotic disease

Integrins are membrane proteins made up of combinations of different “alpha” and “beta” subunits that enable cells throughout the body to interact with their surroundings.

By Bill Snyder
July 10, 2014

Molecular ‘chat’ holds kidney fibrosis clues

A novel molecular “conversation” regulates kidney fibrosis – the final result of end-stage chronic kidney disease – suggesting new treatment options for this currently irreversible process.

By Leigh MacMillan
September 25, 2012

Cell entry ports for cold virus

The respiratory virus HMPV uses its fusion (F) protein – which interacts with cellular receptors called integrins – to bind to and enter target cells.
By Leigh MacMillan
February 16, 2011

Integrin curbs cancer’s spread

Cell surface molecules called integrins have been found to play an important role when cancer metastasizes.
By VUMC News and Communications