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We have isolated cDNA clones encoding the p subunit of the human LFA-1, Mac-l, and p150, 95 family of leukocyte adhesion proteins. The deduced 769-aminoacid sequence defines a cysteine-rich polypeptide with the characteristic features of an integral membrane protein. Peptide sequence data, Northern blot analysis, and Southern blot analysis suggest that a single gene encodes the j3 subunit of all three leukocyte adhesion proteins. There is 45% homology between the j3 subunit sequence and band ill of integrin, a chick fibronectin and laminin receptor. This homology defines a new supergene family of cellular adhesion proteins.

Cellular adhesion is a critical function for guiding development and maintaining the integrity of the body. In the immune system, antigen-specific cell-cell interactions are required for the induction and regulation of the immune response and for effector cell function. Leukocytes must …