The ITGA1 protein is the alpha-1 subunit of the integrin receptor.  By associating with the beta-1 subunit, it forms a heterodimer and functions as a cell surface receptor.  This integrin receptor binds to collagen and laminin and is involved in cell-cell adhesion. 

The ITGA1 receptor is speculated to play a role in inflammation and fibrosis. Studies have also found significant links between ITGA1 and diseases such as gastric cancer and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. 

The ITGA1 gene spans an approximate length of 171 kb of genomic DNA on the long arm of chromosome 5.  The coding sequence of the gene consists of 29 exons.  The encoded ITGA1 protein is made up of 1179 amino acids and is 130 kDA in size. While the gene is ubiquitously expressed, higher levels of expression are seen in the prostate and seminal vesicle.