The role of α9ß1 integrin and its ligands in the development of autoimmune diseases

Adhesion of cells to extracellular matrix proteins through integrins expressed on the cell surface is important for cell adhesion/motility, survival, and differentiation. Recently, alpha 9 ss 1 integrin was reported to be important for the development of autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and their murine models. In addition, ligands for alpha 9 ss 1 integrin, such as osteopontin and tenascin-C, are well established as key regulators of autoimmune diseases. Therefore, this review focused on the role of interactions between alpha 9 ss 1 integrin and its ligands in the development of autoimmune diseases.