Integrins are a family of adhesion receptors used by cells to interact with their extracellular matrix. Integrins also function as signaling receptors, integrating information from the extracellular matrix and other environmental cues including growth factors and hormones. Signals triggered by integrins direct cell adhesion and regulate other aspects of cell behavior including cell proliferation and differentiation, and determine cell survival. The biochemical pathways initiated by integrin engagement are now being identified.