Integrins in mammary gland development and differentiation of mammary epithelium

J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia. 2003 Oct;8(4):383-94. doi: 10.1023/B:JOMG.0000017426.74915.b9.

Abstract

Integrins are major extracellular matrix (ECM) receptors that can also serve for some cell-cell interactions. They have been identified as important regulators of mammary epithelial cell growth and differentiation. Their ability to promote cell anchorage, proliferation, survival, migration, and the induction of active ECM-degrading enzymes suggests that they play an essential role in normal mammary morphogenesis, but, on the other hand, reveals their potential to promote tumor progression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Breast Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Epithelium / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Integrins / genetics
  • Integrins / metabolism*
  • Mammary Glands, Animal / cytology*
  • Mammary Glands, Animal / growth & development
  • Mammary Glands, Animal / metabolism*
  • Morphogenesis

Substances

  • Integrins