@article{Chen2026, 
author = {Yong Chen and Fen Wang and Guixing Ma and Huiling Cao},
title = {Kindlin protein family: physiology, pathology, and implications for development and disease},
year = {2026},
journal = {Oral Science and Homeostatic Medicine},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
pages = {9610038},
keywords = {integrin, signaling pathway, pathology, therapeutic target, Kindlin protein family},
url = {https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.26599/OSHM.2026.9610038},
doi = {10.26599/OSHM.2026.9610038},
abstract = {The Kindlin protein family, consisting of Kindlin-1, Kindlin-2, and Kindlin-3, is crucial in cellular physiology and pathology. Traditionally recognized as essential co-activators of integrins, Kindlins regulate integrin-dependent adhesion, migration, and signal transduction across diverse cell types. Recent advances, however, have revealed that Kindlins extend beyond integrin activation, participating in non-integrin-dependent signaling pathways and transcriptional regulation. This review provides a comprehensive summary of structural, physiological, and pathological roles of Kindlins, integrating their classical integrin-dependent and emerging integrin-independent functions. In this review, we a) offer a comprehensive overview of the structural and functional roles of Kindlin proteins across various organ systems; b) highlight their integrin-independent signaling functions and exact regulatory mechanisms; c) discuss their contributions to pathologies and explore the potential of Kindlins as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.}
}