Integrin alpha(6)beta(4) is mostly expressed in epithelial tissues and endothelial and Schwann cells. Expression of alpha(6)beta(4) is increased in many epithelial tumours, implicating its involvement in tumour malignancy. Moreover, this integrin activates several key signalling molecules in carcinoma cells, but its ability to activate the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway is among the mechanisms by which alpha(6)beta(4) integrin regulates tumour behaviour. In this review we discuss the biological and clinical features of alpha(6)beta(4) integrin that allow it to promote tumour survival and progression of mammary tumours.