Figure 9. A Model for αvβ8 Integrin Adhesion and Signaling at the Neural-Vascular Interface.

αvβ8 integrin is expressed in perivascular neural cells where it mediates interactions with multiple ECM ligands, including latent TGFβ's (LAP-TGFβ), present within vascular basement membranes. Integrin-mediated adhesion induces signaling pathways in cerebral blood vessels via canonical TGFβ receptors (RI/RII). Activation of these pathways in endothelial cells leads to the production of growth factors, and probably other vessel-derived survival cues, which subsequently modulate NPC behaviors. Genetic ablation of β8 integrin causes loss of integrin-mediated adhesion to ECM ligands, which uncouples the neural-vascular cell connections and leads to imbalances in NPC proliferation and survival.