Integrin α10β1: a collagen receptor critical in skeletal development.

Integrin alpha 10 beta 1 is the most abundant collagen-binding integrin in cartilaginous tissues and its expression pattern is distinct from that of other collagen-binding integrins. In vitro and in vivo studies have identified integrin alpha 10 beta 1 as a unique phenotypic marker for chondrocyte differentiation and a crucial mediator of cell-matrix interactions required for proper cartilage development. This chapter describes the structure of the integrin subunit alpha 10, the tissue distribution of the integrin 10 beta 1 and updates available information regarding its regulation and ligand binding. We also summarize current information on the functional roles of alpha 10 beta 1 in chondrogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells and in skeletal growth.