Important role of integrins in the cancer biology

Abstract

Adhesion of breast cancer cells is supported by various integrins. Cell adhesion is critical for maintenance of both three-dimensional and normal function of these tissues. Several integrins have been shown to have higher expression levels in metastatic cancers and have been implicated in degrading basement membrane by interacting with proteolytic enzymes. This suggests that a group of integrins plays an important role in migration and invasion through the remodeling of the extracellular matrix. In this review, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of how integrins regulate breast cancer through modulation of the actin cytoskeleton and the mechanisms that regulate this process. Also, we highlight the importance of integrin-binding proteins in cell migration and mechanisms that operate in invasive cells, during breast cancer progression.