Integrins are a family of adhesive receptors consisting of alpha- and
beta-subunits which attach cells together via adhesive protein ligands
or bind cells to extracellular matrix. They are found on virtually al
l cell types and link the external ligand to the cytoskeleton of the c
ell. Integrins also act as signal transducers both from the outside of
the cell to the interior and also inside-out. Their main functions ar
e in recognition and in tight but regulated binding. The series of rev
iews presented here cover both basic aspects of integrin function, inc
luding signal transduction, snake disintegrins and structure and funct
ion of I-domains in some integrin alpha-subunits, as well as the role
of integrins in diseases; cancer, inflammation and cardiovascular dise
ases. The search for suitable inhibitors of integrins for treatment of
these diseases and future prospects for their use are also discussed.