Integrin αPS3/βν-mediated phagocytosis of apoptotic cells and bacteria in Drosophila.

Integrins exert a variety of cellular functions as heterodimers of two transmembrane subunits named α and β. Integrin βν, a β-subunit of Drosophila integrin, is involved in the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells and bacteria. Here, we searched for an α-subunit that forms a complex and cooperates with βν.

Independent recognition of Staphylococcus aureus by two receptors for phagocytosis in Drosophila.

Integrin βν, one of two β subunits of Drosophila integrin, acts as a receptor in the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. We here examined the involvement of this receptor in defense against infection by Staphylococcus aureus. Flies lacking integrin βν died earlier than control flies upon a septic but not oral infection with this bacterium.