Molecular basis of beta 2 integrin activation by talin unveils subunit-specific mechanisms of integrin signaling.
Gao, T., Maskalenko, N.A., Kabir, S., Campbell, K.S., Wu, J.(2025) Cell Rep 44: 115607-115607
- PubMed: 40310722 
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2025.115607
- Primary Citation of Related Structures:  
8T0D, 9C1T, 9DZ5 - PubMed Abstract: 
Integrins consist of 24 species, each with unique tissue expression profiles and distinct biological functions. The β subunit of integrin interacts with the FERM-folded head domain of talin through an NPxY/F motif, triggering integrin activation. Although this motif is conserved across most integrin-β subunits, the precise molecular mechanism governing talin's selective recognition of different integrin-β subunits remains unclear. We identify two distinct configurations of the talin head when interacting with β2 and β3 integrins, providing critical insights into subunit-specific recognition of integrins. Structural studies reveal that mutations at the subdomain interface of the talin head can shift its β2-bound configuration to a β3-bound configuration. This shift enhances β2-integrin affinity, leading to increased lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1)-mediated natural killer cell activity. Together, our data elucidate the structural basis of talin's role in mediating integrin activation in a subunit-specific manner and advance our understanding of how talin may regulate diverse functions of various integrin species.
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA.
Organizational Affiliation: