Structure and functions of integrins and their role in signal transduction, carcinogenesis, and apoptosis

Integrins are cell surface transmembrane glycoproteins that, perform recept or functions in cell interactions with the extracellular matrix and cell-ce ll contacts. Another function of integrins is transduction of signals that mediate the effects of the matrix on physiological. activity of cells (moti lity, proliferation, differentiation; etc.). Current views on the molecular structure of integrins and their involvement in the organization of the cy toskeleton and control of gene activity are presented. Biochemical mechanis ms, by which the signal functions of integrins are realized, are discussed. The data on the participation of integrins in oncogenic cell transformatio n, metastasis, and apoptosis are analyzed.