Files
Document type
ArticleVersion
Published versionPublication date
Publication license
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/109187
α-Actinin links extracellular matrix rigidity-sensing contractile units with periodic cell-edge retractions
Journal Title
Director/Tutor
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Related resource
Abstract
During spreading and migration, the leading edges of cells undergo periodic protrusion-retraction cycles. The functional purpose of these cycles is unclear. Here, using submicrometer polydimethylsiloxane pillars as substrates for cell spreading, we show that periodic edge retractions coincide with peak forces produced by local contractile units (CUs) that assemble and disassemble along the cell edge to test matrix rigidity. We find that, whereas actin rearward flow produces a relatively constant force inward, the peak of local contractile forces by CUs scales with rigidity. The cytoskeletal protein α-actinin is shared between these two force-producing systems. It initially localizes to the CUs and subsequently moves inward with the actin flow. Knockdown of α-actinin causes aberrant rigidity sensing, loss of CUs, loss of protrusion-retraction cycles, and, surprisingly, enables the cells to proliferate on soft matrices. We present a model based on these results in which local CUs drive rigidity sensing and adhesion formation.
Subject (English)
Citation
Citation
MEACCI, Giovanni, et al. α-Actinin links extracellular matrix rigidity-sensing contractile units with periodic cell-edge retractions. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 2016. Vol. 27, num. 22, pags. 3471-3479. ISSN 1059-1524. [consulted: 11 of August of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/109187