Integrin β3: structural functions, tumour microenvironment regulatory roles and targeted intervention strategies

Integrin β3 (ITGB3) functions as a pivotal transmembrane receptor mediating bidirectional signalling between cells and the extracellular matrix within the tumour microenvironment (TME). Dysregulated ITGB3 expression activates downstream pathways such as FAK/PI3K-Akt/mTOR, orchestrating core malignant processes including invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, immune evasion, and autophagy modulation. Beyond its mechanistic roles, ITGB3 serves as a valuable biomarker for early diagnosis and prognostic assessment. Therapeutic strategies targeting ITGB3 encompass small-molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and emerging Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulations, which offer unique multi-component regulatory advantages. This review systematically elucidates the structure-function relationship of ITGB3, its multidimensional regulatory mechanisms in tumour progression, and current targeted intervention strategies. Ultimately, we aim to provide theoretical insights for establishing ITGB3-guided precision medicine and integrated treatment systems.