The integrin αVβ6 binds and activates latent TGFβ3

Abstract

Transforming growth factors-β (TGFβ1, 2 and 3) are secreted in a complex with their propeptides (latency-associated peptide 1 (LAP1), 2 and 3). TGFβ signaling requires the dissociation of LAP and TGFβ, a process termed latent TGFβ activation. This process is a critical but incompletely understood step in the regulation of TGFβ function. In particular, the extent to which activation mechanisms differ among the three TGFβ isoforms is relatively unexplored. We show here that α_Vβ₆ binds and activates latent TGFβ3.