[Integrins--new receptor molecules: their significance for the differentiation, regeneration and immune response of the skin].

The integrins are a newly defined family of cell surface receptors. They are involved in the adhesion of cells to the extracellular matrix and to other cells. Integrins and their ligands may be required for complex physiological and pathophysiological events, such as epidermal differentiation, inflammation, immune response, wound healing or tumour progression. Some of the integrin receptor molecules are expressed in a distinct distribution pattern within the skin. Three of them are found selectively in the basal layer of the epidermis, suggesting an important role in establishment of the functional integrity of the dermo-epidermal junction. In the present paper we summarize the available data on the structure and function of integrins and report on the expression of these molecules within the skin and their regulation in cell cultures.