부산대학교 도서관

Integrins are a group of transmembrane heterodimeric proteins that mediate cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions. Integrins have been under intense investigation for their role in inflammation in asthma. Clinical trials investigating integrin antagonists, however, have shown that these compounds are relatively ineffective. Airway remodelling is another pathological feature of asthma that is thought to make an important contribution to airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and lung function decline. Recent studies have identified integrins as important players in this process, with a particular role for β 1 and α v integrins. Here we review the role of these integrins in airway remodelling and hyperresponsiveness in obstructive airway disease and their potential as pharmacological targets for future treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]