Abstract
Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane receptors that mediate bidirectional interactions between the intracellular cytoskeletal array and the extracellular matrix. These interactions are critical in tissue development and function by regulating gene expression and sustaining tissue architecture. In humans, the integrin family is composed of 18 alpha (alpha) and 8 beta (beta) subunits, constituting 24 distinct alpha beta combinations. Based on their structure and ligand-binding properties, only a subset of integrins, 8 out of 24, recognizes the arginine-glycine-aspartate (RGD) tripeptide motif in the native ligand. One of the major RGD binding integrins is integrin alpha 8 beta 1 (alpha 8 beta 1), a central Ras homolog gene family member A (RHOA)-dependent modulator highly expressed in cells with contractile function. This review focuses on the recent advances regarding alpha 8 beta 1 function during organ development, with a particular interest in kidney and inner ear development. We also discuss alpha 8 beta 1's role in injury and disease and its importance for mesenchymal to epithelial transition during cancer development. Finally, we highlight alpha 8 beta 1's importance for hearing function and its future use as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic tool for disease elimination.