RGD-Dependent Epithelial Cell-Matrix Interactions in the Human Intestinal Crypt

Figure 1

The RGD-dependent integrins. The RGD peptide (Arg-Gly-Asp) binding integrins represent a subclass of integrin receptors that specifically interact with the RGD motif found in several ECM elements. RGD integrins are formed by α8/α5 subunits coupled with the β1 subunit and the αV subunit coupled with β3/β5/β6/β8 subunits. RGD-dependent α and β heterodimers are connected to each other with respect to their specific RGD containing ligands. The major RGD ligands are fibronectin (dark gray), vitronectin (light gray), osteopontin (black), and nephronectin (white).