Integrins: structure and functions.

Integrins are cell surface transmembrane glycoproteins which perform receptor functions in cell interactions with the extracellular matrix and cell-cell contacts. Another function of integrins is transduction of signals which mediate the effects of the matrix on the physiological activity of cells (motility, proliferation, differentiation, etc.). Contemporary views on the molecular structure of integrins and their involvement in the organization of the cytoskeleton and control of gene activity are presented. Biochemical mechanisms, by which the signal functions of integrins are realized, are discussed. The data on the participation of integrins in oncogenic cell transformation, metastasis, and apoptosis are analyzed.