Figure 7.

Model of integrin activation by talin, shown in three orientations. When talin binds to the β integrin tail it forms an extensive interface with the tail, including a membrane–proximal salt bridge, disrupting the salt bridge between the α and β subunits. To maximize contacts between the membrane and the positively charged membrane orientation patch (MOP) on the talin F2 domain, the β integrin must be reoriented with respect to the membrane by approximately 20°. Through these actions talin causes α/β separation, inducing the active state in the extracellular region.