noun
- A protein found on cell surfaces that mediates cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix adhesion and plays a key role in cell signaling.
Usage: technical; biology; cell biology
Examples
- Integrins are essential for wound healing because they help cells attach to the extracellular matrix.
- The research team studied how integrins on immune cells recognize and bind to pathogens.
- Mutations in integrin genes can lead to bleeding disorders and immune deficiencies.
- Cancer cells often alter their integrin expression to promote metastasis.
- Integrins act as bridges between the cell interior and its external environment.