Integrins as novel drug discovery targets: potential therapeutic and diagnostic implications

The role of integrin and extracellular matrix proteins in various pathological processes (including angiogenesis, thrombosis, apoptosis, cell migration and proliferation), leading to both acute and chronic disease states (such as ocular diseases, metastasis, unstable angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, osteoporosis, a wide range of inflammatory diseases, vascular remodelling, neurodegenerative disorders), has been recently documented. A key success in this field is evident from the potential role of the platelet GPIIb/IIIa integrin in the prevention, treatment and diagnosis of various thromboembolic disorders. Additionally, progress in the development of leukocyte α4β1 antagonists for various inflammatory indications and αv integrin antagonists for angiogenesis and vascular-related disorders has occurred. The rationale for the development of various therapeutic and diagnostic candidates based on the key role of integrin in various diseases will be reviewed.