title: Integrin signaling in skeletal development and function.
abstract: Integrins are cell surface receptors that connect extracellular matrix (ECM) components to the actin cytoskeleton and transmit chemical and mechanical signals into the cells through adhesion complexes. Integrin-activated downstream pathways have been implicated in the regulation of various cellular functions, including proliferation, survival, migration, and differentiation. Integrin-based attachment to the matrix plays a central role in development, tissue morphogenesis, adult tissue homeostasis, remodeling and repair, and disturbance of the ECM-integrin-cytoskeleton signaling axis often results in diseases and tissue dysfunction. Increasing amount of in vitro and in vivo evidences suggest that integrins are pivotal for proper development, function, and regeneration of skeletal tissues. In this paper, we will summarize and discuss the role of integrins in skeletogenesis and their influence on the physiology and pathophysiology of cartilage, bone, and tendon.
authors.affiliation: Experimental Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 80336, Munich, Germany.
authors.forename: Denitsa
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Docheva
authors.forename: Cvetan
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Popov
authors.forename: Paolo
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Alberton
authors.forename: Attila
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Aszodi
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D001846:Bone Development / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D016023:Integrins / Q000378:metabolism*; D015398:Signal Transduction
chemical_list: D016023:Integrins
keywords: articular cartilage; bone; cartilage; integrin signaling; integrins; knockout mice; mesenchymal stem cell; skeletal development; synovial joint; tendon