Integrin alpha-8/beta-1 functions in the genesis of kidney and probably of other organs by regulating the recruitment of mesenchymal cells into epithelial structures. It recognizes the sequence R-G-D in a wide array of ligands including TNC, FN1, SPP1, TGFB1, TGFB3 and VTN. NPNT is probably its functional ligand in kidney genesis (By similarity). Neuronal receptor for TNC it mediates cell-cell interactions and regulates neurite outgrowth of sensory and motor neurons. Heterodimer of an alpha and a beta subunit. The alpha subunit is composed of a heavy and a light chain linked by a disulfide bond. Alpha-8 associates with beta-1. Prominently expressed on axons and on cells in contact with basal laminae in embryos. Expressed in developing tectum (at protein level). Belongs to the integrin alpha chain family.