Beta1 integrin in kidney development

Abstract

The major goal of this thesis is to examine the role of beta1 integrin in kidney development. Our results indicate that beta1 integrin is necessary for ureteric bud branching morphogenesis and maintenance of collecting duct structural integrity. We found that beta1 integrins can regulate branching morphogenesis during development by mediating growth-factor-dependent signaling in addition to their well-defined role as adhesion receptors. We also demonstrated that â1 integrin expression by podocytes is required for normal development and maintenance of glomerular filtration barrier. Overall, our studies discussed in this thesis proved that beta1 integrin is critical for kidney development. These finding have significantly improved the current knowledge of the role of beta1 integrins and facilitated further in depth investigations.