Periostin and Integrin Signaling in Stem Cell Regulation.

Stem cell function is regulated by a huge repertoire of external cues along with stem cell intrinsic genetic and epigenetic factors. These interactions come through a variety of cell adhesion receptors, of which integrins are one of the most important classes. They interact with extracellular matrix (ECM) components and various bound proteins. Apart from inside-out signaling through which integrins ensure that the cells are stably bound to the ECM, outside-in integrin signaling, through binding to a variety of ligands, play important roles in cell fate decisions. Periostin is one such ligand whose role in functional regulation of stem cells is emerging due to its wide expression profile. In this review, we discuss the recent advancements made in the field.