Abstract
Phagocytes, which include neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, protect the body by removing foreign particles, bacteria, and dead or dying cells. Phagocytic integrins are greatly involved in the recognition of and adhesion to specific antigens on cells and pathogens during phagocytosis as well as the recruitment of immune cells. β2 integrins, including αLβ2, αMβ2, αXβ2, and αDβ2, are the major integrins presented on the phagocyte surface. The activation of β2 integrins is essential to the recruitment and phagocytic function of these phagocytes and is critical for the regulation of inflammation and immune defense. However, aberrant activation of β2 integrins aggravates auto-immune diseases, such as psoriasis, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis, and facilitates tumor metastasis, making them double-edged swords as candidates for therapeutic intervention. Therefore, precise regulation of phagocyte activities by targeting β2 integrins should promote their host defense functions with minimal side effects on other cells. Here, we reviewed advances in the regulatory mechanisms underlying β2 integrin inside-out signaling, as well as the roles of β2 integrin activation in phagocyte functions.
Highlights
Phagocytosis is the mechanism by which microorganisms are engulfed and killed, and it is the main process by which immune cells disassemble pathogens to present antigens
While most cells are capable of phagocytosis, the professional phagocytes of the immune system, such as macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, and dendritic cells, excel in this process [4]
This review focuses on the role of b2 integrin activation and signaling during both adhesion and phagocytosis
Summary
Phagocytosis is the mechanism by which microorganisms are engulfed and killed, and it is the main process by which immune cells disassemble pathogens to present antigens. Phagocytic integrins are greatly involved in the recognition of and adhesion to specific antigens on cells and pathogens during phagocytosis as well as the recruitment of immune cells. B2 integrins play a major role in regulating phagocyte adhesion and migration to inflamed organs and other immunological processes, such as phagocytosis [12, 13] (Table 1).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call