Integrin alpha 4 beta 7 is an integrin family adhesion receptor that shares subunits with alpha 4 beta 1 (VLA4) and the ECadherin receptor, alpha E beta 7 . Integrin alpha 4 beta 7, which is critical for homing to intestinal mucosa, is induced during T cell activation in Peyers patches or mesenteric lymph nodes.Its expression requires signals from local dendritic and stromal cells, including secreted retinoic acid. The HIV1 envelope protein gp120 binds to the active form of Integrin alpha 4 beta 7, and this may or may not account for the concentration of HIV1 virus in the gutassociated lymphoid tissue (GALT). Integrin alpha 4 beta 7 may also be involved in lymphocyte trafficking in acute intestinal graft vs. host disease (GVHD). - Proteine/Peptide
