Itgal-KO Mouse

Itgal, also known as Integrin subunit alpha L, encodes an integrin component of LFA-1, which is a membrane receptor molecule widely expressed on leukocytes. It plays a key role in the interaction between white blood cells and other cells and is involved in immune-related signaling pathways such as the T cell receptor signaling pathway, Th17 cell differentiation, chemokine signaling pathway, and NF-κB signaling pathway [1,5].

In various cancers, Itgal shows different expression patterns and prognostic implications. In non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Itgal is downregulated in tumor tissues compared with paracancerous tissues, and low expression is associated with poor prognosis. Also, high Itgal expression is related to higher infiltration of CD8+ T cells, CD68+ macrophages, CD4+ T cells, and CD20+ B cells in tumor tissues [1]. In acute myeloid leukemia, Itgal is highly expressed and elevated expression is associated with poor prognosis, and it is related to the number of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and cytokine production [2]. In gastric cancer, Itgal expression in cancer samples is increased compared to peritumor samples, and high expression is related to poor survival and various immune cell infiltrates [3]. In melanoma, it is investigated for its relationship with immune infiltration and prognosis [4]. In lung adenocarcinoma, high Itgal expression is an independent predictor of better prognosis, and it suppresses malignant progression [6]. In murine low-grade glioma, Itgal/CD11A in glioma-associated microglia is critical for microglia CX3CL1 receptor expression, CX3CL1-directed motility, and glioma mitogen production, and antibody-mediated CD11a inhibition reduces mouse Nf1 low-grade glioma growth in vivo [7].

In conclusion, Itgal is crucial for leukocyte-cell interactions and immune-related signaling. Studies in various cancer models, including mouse models in glioma, have revealed its diverse roles in cancer prognosis, immune cell infiltration, and tumor growth regulation. Understanding Itgal may provide insights into cancer immunotherapy and targeted treatment strategies.