Abstract α 4 and β 7 integrins, such as α 4 β 1, α 4 β 7, and α E β 7, are major integrins
required for migration of leukocytes into mucosal tissues. The mechanisms responsible for
coordinated expression of these three integrins have been poorly elucidated to date. We
report that expression of the Itg-α 4 subunit by both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells requires the
retinoic acid signal. In contrast, transcription of Itg-α E genes is induced by the transforming
growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) signal. Expression of Itg-β 7 is constitutive but can be further …