Integrin α6β4 in colorectal cancer

Figure 1 ECM composition and organization of the epithelial-stromal interface in the intestinal mucosa. The basement membrane (in blue) is located at the interface between the epithelium (E) and the stroma (S). It contains exclusive components such as the type IV collagens and laminins as well as non-exclusive components, such as the fibronectins and tenascins that are also found in the interstitial matrix. Epithelial cells and subepithelial myofibroblasts (M) produce specific basement membrane components. Epithelial cells possess specific receptors for BM components such as the integrins (in red) that are responsible for the mediation of cell-matrix interactions. Adapted from references [4,5].