The ITGAL antibody targets the protein encoded by the ITGAL gene, which is a subunit (αL, CD11a) of the integrin family. This protein pairs with the β2 subunit (CD18) to form lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1), a cell-surface receptor expressed on leukocytes, including T cells, B cells, and macrophages. LFA-1 plays a critical role in immune responses by mediating cell adhesion and migration through interactions with intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAMs), particularly ICAM-1. These interactions facilitate immune cell trafficking, antigen presentation, and T-cell activation.
ITGAL antibodies are widely used in research to investigate inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis), and cancer immunotherapy. They help block LFA-1/ICAM binding, enabling studies on immune cell recruitment and inhibition of pathological immune activation. Therapeutic anti-ITGAL antibodies, such as efalizumab, were developed to modulate immune activity but faced limitations due to safety concerns. Current research focuses on optimizing LFA-1-targeted therapies to balance efficacy and side effects. As a tool, ITGAL antibodies remain vital for dissecting integrin signaling pathways and validating therapeutic targets in preclinical models.