Distinct Recognition of Collagen Subtypes by α1β1 and α2β1Integrins

Two integrin-type collagen receptors, α1β1 and α2β1, are structurally very similar. However, cells can concomitantly express the both receptors and they might have independent functions. Here, Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, which lack endogenous collagen receptors, were transfected with either α1 or α2 integrin cDNA. Cells were allowed to adhere to various collagen types and their integrin function was tested by observing the progression of cell spreading. The cells expressing α1β1 integrin could spread on collagen types I, III, IV, and V but not on type II, while α2β1 integrin could mediate cell spreading on collagen types I-V. Type XIII is a transmembrane collagen and its interaction …