Recombinant Chicken Integrin Alpha-8 (ITGA8)

Chicken Integrin Alpha-8 (ITGA8) is a cell surface receptor protein that plays a crucial role in cell adhesion, migration, and tissue development. It forms a heterodimer with the beta-1 integrin subunit to function as a receptor for RGD-containing matrix molecules such as fibronectin, vitronectin, and osteopontin. In chickens, ITGA8 is predominantly expressed in mesenchymal cells, including vascular smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts. It is essential for proper embryonic development, particularly in the formation of the kidney and other organs. ITGA8 is involved in the reciprocal interaction between the ureteric bud and metanephric mesenchyme, which is critical for nephron differentiation and renal development. Deficiencies in ITGA8 can lead to congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract. Additionally, ITGA8 has been implicated in wound healing and organogenesis due to its role in mediating cell-cell interactions and regulating neurite outgrowth.