Integrin αX (CD11C, leukocyte surface antigen p150,95, CR4, Axb2) is a type 1 transmembrane protein that traditionally combines with β2 chain to form a leukocyte-specific integrin known as inactivated-C3b (iC3b) receptor 4 (CR4). Integrin αX/β2 shares similar properties of the αM/β2 integrin in mediating adherence of neutrophils and monocytes to stimulated endothelial cells, and in phagocytosis of complement coated particles. Abnormal expression of Integrin αX is characteristic of hairy cell leukemia (HCL) and is dependent upon activation of proto-oncogenes Ras and JunD. Proteins and DNA elements that influence transcription of Integrin αX include Sp1 and Sp1-like factors, AP-1 family, C/EBP, Oct-2 and PU.1. Integrin αX is present on monocyte derivative dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages and NK cells. Upon activation, DCs present in skin (Langerhans cells), lining of nose, lung, stomach, intestine and blood can migrate to lymphoid tissues and interact with T and B cells to initiate and shape the immune response.
