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Sugimura K, Otani T. Vertex remodeling during epithelial morphogenesis. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2024; 91:102427. [PMID: 39332144 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2024.102427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial cells adhere to each other via intercellular junctions that can be classified into bicellular junctions and tricellular contacts (vertices). Epithelial morphogenesis involves cell rearrangement and requires remodeling of bicellular junctions and vertices. Although our understanding of how bicellular junction mechanics drive epithelial morphogenesis has advanced, the mechanisms underlying vertex remodeling during this process have only received attention recently. In this review, we outline recent progress in our understanding of how cells reorganize cell adhesion and the cytoskeleton to trigger the displacement and resolution of cell vertices. We will also discuss how cells achieve the optimal balance between the structural flexibility and stability of their vertices. Finally, we introduce new modeling frameworks designed to analyze mechanics at cell vertices. Integration of live imaging and modeling techniques is providing new insights into the active roles of cell vertices during epithelial morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoru Sugimura
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; Universal Biology Institute, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Tetsuhisa Otani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, Japan; Japan Science and Technology Agency, Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology (PRESTO), Saitama, Japan.
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2
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Altmaier S, Le Harzic R, Stracke F, Speicher AM, Uhl D, Ehrlich J, Gerlach T, Schmidt K, Lemmer K, Lautenschläger F, Böse H, Neubauer JC, Zimmermann H, Meiser I. Cytoskeleton adaptation to stretchable surface relaxation improves adherent cryopreservation of human mesenchymal stem cells. Cryobiology 2024; 117:104958. [PMID: 39243925 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2024.104958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Adherent cell systems are usually dissociated before being cryopreserved, as standard protocols are established for cells in suspension. The application of standard procedures to more complex systems, sensitive to dissociation, such as adherent monolayers, especially comprising mature cell types or tissues remains unsatisfactory. Uncontrolled cell detachment due to intracellular tensile stress, membrane ruptures and damages of adhesion proteins are common during freezing and thawing of cell monolayers. However, many therapeutically relevant cell systems grow adherently to develop their native morphology and functionality, but lose their integrity after dissociation. The hypothesis is that cells on stretchable substrates have a more adaptable cytoskeleton and membrane, reducing cryopreservation-induced stress. Our studies investigate the influence of stretchable surfaces on the cryopreservation of adherent cells to avoid harmful dissociation and expedite post-thawing cultivation of functional cells. A stretching apparatus for defined radial stretching, consisting of silicone vessels and films with specific surface textures for cell culture, was developed. Adherent human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) were cultivated on a stretched silicone film within the vessel, forming a monolayer that was compressed by relaxation, while remaining attached to the relaxed film. Compressed hUC-MSCs, which were cryopreserved adherently showed higher viability and less detachment after thawing compared to control cells without compression. Within three to seven days post-thawing, the hUC-MSCs recovered, and the monolayer reformed. These experiments support the hypothesis that cryopreservation success of adherent cell systems is enhanced by improved adaptability of the cytoskeleton and cell membrane, opening up new approaches in cryobiotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Altmaier
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biotechnology, Saarland University, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany; Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Ronan Le Harzic
- Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Frank Stracke
- Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Anna Martina Speicher
- Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Detlev Uhl
- Center Smart Materials and Adaptive Systems (CeSMA), Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Neunerplatz 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Ehrlich
- Center Smart Materials and Adaptive Systems (CeSMA), Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Neunerplatz 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Gerlach
- Center Smart Materials and Adaptive Systems (CeSMA), Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Neunerplatz 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Schmidt
- Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Katja Lemmer
- Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany
| | | | - Holger Böse
- Center Smart Materials and Adaptive Systems (CeSMA), Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Neunerplatz 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Julia C Neubauer
- Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Heiko Zimmermann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biotechnology, Saarland University, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany; Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany; Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, 1780000, Coquimbo, Chile
| | - Ina Meiser
- Department of Cryosensor Technology, Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1, 66820, Sulzbach, Germany.
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3
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Rouaud F, Maupérin M, Mutero-Maeda A, Citi S. Cingulin-nonmuscle myosin interaction plays a role in epithelial morphogenesis and cingulin nanoscale organization. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs262353. [PMID: 39319625 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.262353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cingulin (CGN) tethers nonmuscle myosin 2B (NM2B; heavy chain encoded by MYH10) to tight junctions (TJs) to modulate junctional and apical cortex mechanics. Here, we studied the role of the CGN-nonmuscle myosin 2 (NM2) interaction in epithelial morphogenesis and nanoscale organization of CGN by expressing wild-type and mutant CGN constructs in CGN-knockout Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells. We show that the NM2-binding region of CGN is required to promote normal cyst morphogenesis of MDCK cells grown in three dimensions and to maintain the C-terminus of CGN in a distal position with respect to the ZO-2 (or TJP2)-containing TJ submembrane region, whereas the N-terminus of CGN is localized more proximal to the TJ membrane. We also show that the CGN mutant protein that causes deafness in human and mouse models is localized at TJs but does not bind to NM2B, resulting in decreased TJ membrane tortuosity. These results indicate that the interaction between CGN and NM2B regulates epithelial tissue morphogenesis and nanoscale organization of CGN and suggest that CGN regulates the auditory function of hair cells by organizing the actomyosin cytoskeleton to modulate the mechanics of the apical and junctional cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Rouaud
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Geneva, 30, Quai E. Ansermet, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marine Maupérin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Geneva, 30, Quai E. Ansermet, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Annick Mutero-Maeda
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Geneva, 30, Quai E. Ansermet, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Citi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Geneva, 30, Quai E. Ansermet, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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4
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Fu C, Dilasser F, Lin SZ, Karnat M, Arora A, Rajendiran H, Ong HT, Mui Hoon Brenda N, Phow SW, Hirashima T, Sheetz M, Rupprecht JF, Tlili S, Viasnoff V. Regulation of intercellular viscosity by E-cadherin-dependent phosphorylation of EGFR in collective cell migration. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2405560121. [PMID: 39231206 PMCID: PMC11406304 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2405560121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Collective cell migration is crucial in various physiological processes, including wound healing, morphogenesis, and cancer metastasis. Adherens Junctions (AJs) play a pivotal role in regulating cell cohesion and migration dynamics during tissue remodeling. While the role and origin of the junctional mechanical tension at AJs have been extensively studied, the influence of the actin cortex structure and dynamics on junction plasticity remains incompletely understood. Moreover, the mechanisms underlying stress dissipation at junctions are not well elucidated. Here, we found that the ligand-independent phosphorylation of epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) downstream of de novo E-cadherin adhesion orchestrates a feedback loop, governing intercellular viscosity via the Rac pathway regulating actin dynamics. Our findings highlight how the E-cadherin-dependent EGFR activity controls the migration mode of collective cell movements independently of intercellular tension. This modulation of effective viscosity coordinates cellular movements within the expanding monolayer, inducing a transition from swirling to laminar flow patterns while maintaining a constant migration front speed. Additionally, we propose a vertex model with adjustable junctional viscosity, capable of replicating all observed cellular flow phenotypes experimentally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyu Fu
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Florian Dilasser
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Shao-Zhen Lin
- Aix Marseille Univ, Université de Toulon, CNRS, Centre de Physique Theorique (UMR 7332), Turing Centre for Living systems, Marseille 13009, France
| | - Marc Karnat
- Aix Marseille Univ, Université de Toulon, CNRS, Centre de Physique Theorique (UMR 7332), Turing Centre for Living systems, Marseille 13009, France
| | - Aditya Arora
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Harini Rajendiran
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Hui Ting Ong
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Nai Mui Hoon Brenda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore
| | - Sound Wai Phow
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Tsuyoshi Hirashima
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Michael Sheetz
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Jean-François Rupprecht
- Aix Marseille Univ, Université de Toulon, CNRS, Centre de Physique Theorique (UMR 7332), Turing Centre for Living systems, Marseille 13009, France
| | - Sham Tlili
- Aix Marseille Univ, Institut de Biologie du developpement de Marseille (UMR 7288), Turing Centre for Living systems, Marseille 13009, France
| | - Virgile Viasnoff
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
- CNRS International Research Lab 3639, Singapore 117411, Singapore
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5
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Le S, Yu M, Fu C, Heier JA, Martin S, Hardin J, Yan J. Single-molecule force spectroscopy reveals intra- and intermolecular interactions of Caenorhabditis elegans HMP-1 during mechanotransduction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2400654121. [PMID: 39236238 PMCID: PMC11406289 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2400654121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The Caenorhabditis elegans HMP-2/HMP-1 complex, akin to the mammalian [Formula: see text]-catenin-[Formula: see text]-catenin complex, serves as a critical mechanosensor at cell-cell adherens junctions, transducing tension between HMR-1 (also known as cadherin in mammals) and the actin cytoskeleton. Essential for embryonic development and tissue integrity in C. elegans, this complex experiences tension from both internal actomyosin contractility and external mechanical microenvironmental perturbations. While offering a valuable evolutionary comparison to its mammalian counterpart, the impact of tension on the mechanical stability of HMP-1 and HMP-2/HMP-1 interactions remains unexplored. In this study, we directly quantified the mechanical stability of full-length HMP-1 and its force-bearing modulation domains (M1-M3), as well as the HMP-2/HMP-1 interface. Notably, the M1 domain in HMP-1 exhibits significantly higher mechanical stability than its mammalian analog, attributable to interdomain interactions with M2-M3. Introducing salt bridge mutations in the M3 domain weakens the mechanical stability of the M1 domain. Moreover, the intermolecular HMP-2/HMP-1 interface surpasses its mammalian counterpart in mechanical stability, enabling it to support the mechanical activation of the autoinhibited M1 domain for mechanotransduction. Additionally, the phosphomimetic mutation Y69E in HMP-2 weakens the mechanical stability of the HMP-2/HMP-1 interface, compromising the force-transmission molecular linkage and its associated mechanosensing functions. Collectively, these findings provide mechanobiological insights into the C. elegans HMP-2/HMP-1 complex, highlighting the impact of salt bridges on mechanical stability in [Formula: see text]-catenin and demonstrating the evolutionary conservation of the mechanical switch mechanism activating the HMP-1 modulation domain for protein binding at the single-molecule level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimin Le
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
- Department of Physics, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Miao Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Division of Orthopaedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Chaoyu Fu
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
- Department of Physics, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117542, Singapore
| | - Jonathon A Heier
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Sterling Martin
- Biophysics Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Jeff Hardin
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
- Biophysics Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Jie Yan
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117411, Singapore
- Department of Physics, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117542, Singapore
- Centre for Bioimaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117557, Singapore
- Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University, International Campus of Tianjin University, Binhai New City, Fuzhou 350207, China
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6
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Chen L, Qu H, Liu B, Chen BC, Yang Z, Shi DZ, Zhang Y. Low or oscillatory shear stress and endothelial permeability in atherosclerosis. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1432719. [PMID: 39314624 PMCID: PMC11417040 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1432719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial shear stress is a tangential stress derived from the friction of the flowing blood on the endothelial surface of the arterial wall and is expressed in units of force/unit area (dyne/cm2). Branches and bends of arteries are exposed to complex blood flow patterns that generate low or oscillatory endothelial shear stress, which impairs glycocalyx integrity, cytoskeleton arrangement and endothelial junctions (adherens junctions, tight junctions, gap junctions), thus increasing endothelial permeability. The lipoproteins and inflammatory cells penetrating intima due to the increased endothelial permeability characterizes the pathological changes in early stage of atherosclerosis. Endothelial cells are critical sensors of shear stress, however, the mechanisms by which the complex shear stress regulate endothelial permeability in atherosclerosis remain unclear. In this review, we focus on the molecular mechanisms of the endothelial permeability induced by low or oscillatory shear stress, which will shed a novel sight in early stage of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Qu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Bing-Chang Chen
- Graduate school, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
| | - Da-Zhuo Shi
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
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Nanavati BN, Noordstra I, Lwin AKO, Brooks JW, Rae J, Parton RG, Verma S, Duszyc K, Green KJ, Yap AS. The desmosome-intermediate filament system facilitates mechanotransduction at adherens junctions for epithelial homeostasis. Curr Biol 2024; 34:4081-4090.e5. [PMID: 39153481 PMCID: PMC11387132 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.07.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial homeostasis can be critically influenced by how cells respond to mechanical forces, both local changes in force balance between cells and altered tissue-level forces.1 Coupling of specialized cell-cell adhesions to their cytoskeletons provides epithelia with diverse strategies to respond to mechanical stresses.2,3,4 Desmosomes confer tissue resilience when their associated intermediate filaments (IFs)2,3 stiffen in response to strain,5,6,7,8,9,10,11 while mechanotransduction associated with the E-cadherin apparatus12,13 at adherens junctions (AJs) actively modulates actomyosin by RhoA signaling. Although desmosomes and AJs make complementary contributions to mechanical homeostasis in epithelia,6,8 there is increasing evidence to suggest that these cytoskeletal-adhesion systems can interact functionally and biochemically.8,14,15,16,17,18,19,20 We now report that the desmosome-IF system integrated by desmoplakin (DP) facilitates active tension sensing at AJs for epithelial homeostasis. DP function is necessary for mechanosensitive RhoA signaling at AJs to be activated when tension was applied to epithelial monolayers. This effect required DP to anchor IFs to desmosomes and recruit the dystonin (DST) cytolinker to apical junctions. DP RNAi reduced the mechanical load that was applied to the cadherin complex by increased monolayer tension. Consistent with reduced mechanical signal strength, DP RNAi compromised assembly of the Myosin VI-E-cadherin mechanosensor that activates RhoA. The integrated DP-IF system therefore supports AJ mechanotransduction by enhancing the mechanical load of tissue tension that is transmitted to E-cadherin. This crosstalk was necessary for efficient elimination of apoptotic epithelial cells by apical extrusion, demonstrating its contribution to epithelial homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bageshri Naimish Nanavati
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ivar Noordstra
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Angela K O Lwin
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - John W Brooks
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - James Rae
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Robert G Parton
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Suzie Verma
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Kinga Duszyc
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Kathleen J Green
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 06011, USA
| | - Alpha S Yap
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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8
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Aw WY, Sawhney A, Rathod M, Whitworth CP, Doherty EL, Madden E, Lu J, Westphal K, Stack R, Polacheck WJ. Dysfunctional mechanotransduction regulates the progression of PIK3CA-driven vascular malformations. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.22.609165. [PMID: 39229154 PMCID: PMC11370454 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.22.609165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Somatic activating mutations in PIK3CA are common drivers of vascular and lymphatic malformations. Despite common biophysical signatures of tissues susceptible to lesion formation, including compliant extracellular matrix and low rates of perfusion, lesions vary in clinical presentation from localized cystic dilatation to diffuse and infiltrative vascular dysplasia. The mechanisms driving the differences in disease severity and variability in clinical presentation and the role of the biophysical microenvironment in potentiating progression are poorly understood. Here, we investigate the role of hemodynamic forces and the biophysical microenvironment in the pathophysiology of vascular malformations, and we identify hemodynamic shear stress and defective endothelial cell mechanotransduction as key regulators of lesion progression. We found that constitutive PI3K activation impaired flow-mediated endothelial cell alignment and barrier function. We show that defective shear stress sensing in PIK3CA E542K endothelial cells is associated with reduced myosin light chain phosphorylation, junctional instability, and defective recruitment of vinculin to cell-cell junctions. Using 3D microfluidic models of the vasculature, we demonstrate that PIK3CA E542K microvessels apply reduced traction forces and are unaffected by flow interruption. We further found that draining transmural flow resulted in increased sprouting and invasion responses in PIK3CA E542K microvessels. Mechanistically, constitutive PI3K activation decreased cellular and nuclear elasticity resulting in defective cellular tensional homeostasis in endothelial cells which may underlie vascular dilation, tissue hyperplasia, and hypersprouting in PIK3CA-driven venous and lymphatic malformations. Together, these results suggest that defective nuclear mechanics, impaired cellular mechanotransduction, and maladaptive hemodynamic responses contribute to the development and progression of PIK3CA-driven vascular malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yih Aw
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Aanya Sawhney
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Mitesh Rathod
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Chloe P Whitworth
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth L Doherty
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Ethan Madden
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jingming Lu
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Kaden Westphal
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Ryan Stack
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - William J Polacheck
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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9
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Carl AG, Reynolds MJ, Gurel PS, Phua DY, Sun X, Mei L, Hamilton K, Takagi Y, Noble AJ, Sellers JR, Alushin GM. Myosin forces elicit an F-actin structural landscape that mediates mechanosensitive protein recognition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.15.608188. [PMID: 39185238 PMCID: PMC11343212 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.15.608188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Cells mechanically interface with their surroundings through cytoskeleton-linked adhesions, allowing them to sense physical cues that instruct development and drive diseases such as cancer. Contractile forces generated by myosin motor proteins mediate these mechanical signal transduction processes through unclear protein structural mechanisms. Here, we show that myosin forces elicit structural changes in actin filaments (F-actin) that modulate binding by the mechanosensitive adhesion protein α-catenin. Using correlative cryo-fluorescence microscopy and cryo-electron tomography, we identify F-actin featuring domains of nanoscale oscillating curvature at cytoskeleton-adhesion interfaces enriched in zyxin, a marker of actin-myosin generated traction forces. We next introduce a reconstitution system for visualizing F-actin in the presence of myosin forces with cryo-electron microscopy, which reveals morphologically similar superhelical F-actin spirals. In simulations, transient forces mimicking tugging and release of filaments by motors produce spirals, supporting a mechanistic link to myosin's ATPase mechanochemical cycle. Three-dimensional reconstruction of spirals uncovers extensive asymmetric remodeling of F-actin's helical lattice. This is recognized by α-catenin, which cooperatively binds along individual strands, preferentially engaging interfaces featuring extended inter-subunit distances while simultaneously suppressing rotational deviations to regularize the lattice. Collectively, we find that myosin forces can deform F-actin, generating a conformational landscape that is detected and reciprocally modulated by a mechanosensitive protein, providing a direct structural glimpse at active force transduction through the cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayala G. Carl
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- Tri-Institutional Program in Chemical Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew J. Reynolds
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pinar S. Gurel
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Donovan Y.Z. Phua
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Sun
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lin Mei
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- Tri-Institutional Program in Chemical Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Keith Hamilton
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yasuharu Takagi
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alex J. Noble
- Simons Electron Microscopy Center, New York Structural Biology Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - James R. Sellers
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gregory M. Alushin
- Laboratory of Structural Biophysics and Mechanobiology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
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Prencipe G, Cerveró-Varona A, Perugini M, Sulcanese L, Iannetta A, Haidar-Montes AA, Stöckl J, Canciello A, Berardinelli P, Russo V, Barboni B. Amphiregulin orchestrates the paracrine immune-suppressive function of amniotic-derived cells through its interplay with COX-2/PGE 2/EP4 axis. iScience 2024; 27:110508. [PMID: 39156643 PMCID: PMC11326934 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The paracrine crosstalk between amniotic-derived membranes (AMs)/epithelial cells (AECs) and immune cells is pivotal in tissue healing following inflammation. Despite evidence collected to date, gaps in understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms have hindered clinical applications. The present study represents a significant step forward demonstrating that amphiregulin (AREG) orchestrates the native immunomodulatory functions of amniotic derivatives via the COX-2/PGE2/EP4 axis. The results highlight the immunosuppressive efficacy of PGE2-dependent AREG release, dampening PBMCs' activation, and NFAT pathway in Jurkat reporter cells via TGF-β signaling. Moreover, AREG emerges as a key protein mediator by attenuating acute inflammatory response in Tg(lysC:DsRed2) zebrafish larvae. Notably, the interplay of diverse COX-2/PGE2 pathway activators enables AM/AEC to adapt rapidly to external stimuli (LPS and/or stretching) through a responsive positive feedback loop on the AREG/EGFR axis. These findings offer valuable insights for developing innovative cell-free therapies leveraging the potential of amniotic derivatives in immune-mediated diseases and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Prencipe
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Adrián Cerveró-Varona
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Monia Perugini
- Department of Bioscience and Agro-Food and Environmental Technology, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Ludovica Sulcanese
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annamaria Iannetta
- Department of Bioscience and Agro-Food and Environmental Technology, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Arlette Alina Haidar-Montes
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Johannes Stöckl
- Centre for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Angelo Canciello
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Unit of Basic and Applied Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Agro-Food and Environmental Technologies, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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11
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Cai J, Deng Y, Min Z, Li C, Zhao Z, Jing D. Deciphering the dynamics: Exploring the impact of mechanical forces on histone acetylation. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23849. [PMID: 39096133 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400907rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Living cells navigate a complex landscape of mechanical cues that influence their behavior and fate, originating from both internal and external sources. At the molecular level, the translation of these physical stimuli into cellular responses relies on the intricate coordination of mechanosensors and transducers, ultimately impacting chromatin compaction and gene expression. Notably, epigenetic modifications on histone tails govern the accessibility of gene-regulatory sites, thereby regulating gene expression. Among these modifications, histone acetylation emerges as particularly responsive to the mechanical microenvironment, exerting significant control over cellular activities. However, the precise role of histone acetylation in mechanosensing and transduction remains elusive due to the complexity of the acetylation network. To address this gap, our aim is to systematically explore the key regulators of histone acetylation and their multifaceted roles in response to biomechanical stimuli. In this review, we initially introduce the ubiquitous force experienced by cells and then explore the dynamic alterations in histone acetylation and its associated co-factors, including HDACs, HATs, and acetyl-CoA, in response to these biomechanical cues. Furthermore, we delve into the intricate interactions between histone acetylation and mechanosensors/mechanotransducers, offering a comprehensive analysis. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a holistic understanding of the nuanced interplay between histone acetylation and mechanical forces within an academic framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yudi Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ziyang Min
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaoyuan Li
- Department of Implantology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhihe Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dian Jing
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology, Shanghai, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
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12
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Tijoriwalla S, Liyanage T, Herath TUB, Lee N, Rehman A, Gianfelice A, Ireton K. The host GTPase Dynamin 2 modulates apical junction structure to control cell-to-cell spread of Listeria monocytogenes. Infect Immun 2024:e0013624. [PMID: 39133017 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00136-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The food-borne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes uses actin-based motility to generate plasma membrane protrusions that mediate the spread of bacteria between host cells. In polarized epithelial cells, efficient protrusion formation by L. monocytogenes requires the secreted bacterial protein InlC, which binds to a carboxyl-terminal Src homology 3 (SH3) domain in the human scaffolding protein Tuba. This interaction antagonizes Tuba, thereby diminishing cortical tension at the apical junctional complex and enhancing L. monocytogenes protrusion formation and spread. Tuba contains five SH3 domains apart from the domain that interacts with InlC. Here, we show that human GTPase Dynamin 2 associates with two SH3 domains in the amino-terminus of Tuba and acts together with this scaffolding protein to control the spread of L. monocytogenes. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of Dynamin 2 or knockdown of Tuba each restored normal protrusion formation and spread to a bacterial strain deleted for the inlC gene (∆inlC). Dynamin 2 localized to apical junctions in uninfected human cells and protrusions in cells infected with L. monocytogenes. Localization of Dynamin 2 to junctions and protrusions depended on Tuba. Knockdown of Dynamin 2 or Tuba diminished junctional linearity, indicating a role for these proteins in controlling cortical tension. Infection with L. monocytogenes induced InlC-dependent displacement of Dynamin 2 from junctions, suggesting a possible mechanism of antagonism of this GTPase. Collectively, our results show that Dynamin 2 cooperates with Tuba to promote intercellular tension that restricts the spread of ∆inlC Listeria. By expressing InlC, wild-type L. monocytogenes overcomes this restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Tijoriwalla
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Thiloma Liyanage
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Thilina U B Herath
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Nicole Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Attika Rehman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Antonella Gianfelice
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Keith Ireton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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13
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Safa BT, Rosenbohm J, Esfahani AM, Minnick G, Moghaddam AO, Lavrik NV, Huang C, Charras G, Kabla A, Yang R. Sustained Strain Applied at High Rates Drives Dynamic Tensioning in Epithelial Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.31.606021. [PMID: 39131373 PMCID: PMC11312595 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.31.606021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial cells experience long lasting loads of different magnitudes and rates. How they adapt to these loads strongly impacts tissue health. Yet, much remains unknown about their stress evolution under sustained strain. Here, by subjecting cell pairs to sustained strain, we report a bimodal stress response, where in addition to the typically observed stress relaxation, a subset of cells exhibits a dynamic tensioning process with significant elevation in stress within 100s, resembling active pulling-back in muscle fibers. Strikingly, the fraction of cells exhibiting tensioning increases with increasing strain rate. The tensioning response is accompanied by actin remodeling, and perturbation to actin abrogates it, supporting cell contractility's role in the response. Collectively, our data show that epithelial cells adjust their tensional states over short timescales in a strain-rate dependent manner to adapt to sustained strains, demonstrating that the active pulling-back behavior could be a common protective mechanism against environmental stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Tajvidi Safa
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Jordan Rosenbohm
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Amir Monemian Esfahani
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Grayson Minnick
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Amir Ostadi Moghaddam
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Nickolay V. Lavrik
- Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Changjin Huang
- School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Guillaume Charras
- London Centre for Nanotechnology, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
- Institute for the Physics of Living Systems, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alexandre Kabla
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ruiguo Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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14
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Gan WJ, Giri R, Begun J, Abud HE, Hardeman EC, Gunning PW, Yap AS, Noordstra I. A truncation mutant of adenomatous polyposis coli impairs apical cell extrusion through elevated epithelial tissue tension. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2024. [PMID: 38984538 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Tissue tension encompasses the mechanical forces exerted on solid tissues within animal bodies, originating from various sources such as cellular contractility, interactions with neighboring cells and the extracellular matrix. Emerging evidence indicates that an imbalance in such forces can influence structural organization, homeostasis, and potentially contribute to disease. For instance, heightened tissue tension can impede apical cell extrusion, leading to the retention of apoptotic or transformed cells. In this study, we investigate the potential role of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) in modulating tissue tension. Our findings reveal that expression of an APC truncation mutant elevates epithelial tension via the RhoA/ROCK pathway. This elevation induces morphological alterations and hampers apoptotic cell extrusion in cultured epithelial cells and organoids, both of which could be mitigated by pharmacologically restoring the tissue tension. This raises the possibility that APC mutations may exert pathogenetic effects by altering tissue mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan J Gan
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rabina Giri
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jakob Begun
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Helen E Abud
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Development and Stem Cells Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Edna C Hardeman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter W Gunning
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alpha S Yap
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ivar Noordstra
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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15
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Lechuga S, Marino-Melendez A, Davis A, Zalavadia A, Khan A, Longworth MS, Ivanov AI. Coactosin-like protein 1 regulates integrity and repair of model intestinal epithelial barriers via actin binding dependent and independent mechanisms. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1405454. [PMID: 39040043 PMCID: PMC11260685 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1405454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The actin cytoskeleton regulates the integrity and repair of epithelial barriers by mediating the assembly of tight junctions (TJs), and adherens junctions (AJs), and driving epithelial wound healing. Actin filaments undergo a constant turnover guided by numerous actin-binding proteins, however, the roles of actin filament dynamics in regulating intestinal epithelial barrier integrity and repair remain poorly understood. Coactosin-like protein 1 (COTL1) is a member of the ADF/cofilin homology domain protein superfamily that binds and stabilizes actin filaments. COTL1 is essential for neuronal and cancer cell migration, however, its functions in epithelia remain unknown. The goal of this study is to investigate the roles of COTL1 in regulating the structure, permeability, and repair of the epithelial barrier in human intestinal epithelial cells (IEC). COTL1 was found to be enriched at apical junctions in polarized IEC monolayers in vitro. The knockdown of COTL1 in IEC significantly increased paracellular permeability, impaired the steady state TJ and AJ integrity, and attenuated junctional reassembly in a calcium-switch model. Consistently, downregulation of COTL1 expression in Drosophila melanogaster increased gut permeability. Loss of COTL1 attenuated collective IEC migration and decreased cell-matrix attachment. The observed junctional abnormalities in COTL1-depleted IEC were accompanied by the impaired assembly of the cortical actomyosin cytoskeleton. Overexpression of either wild-type COTL1 or its actin-binding deficient mutant tightened the paracellular barrier and activated junction-associated myosin II. Furthermore, the actin-uncoupled COTL1 mutant inhibited epithelial migration and matrix attachment. These findings highlight COTL1 as a novel regulator of the intestinal epithelial barrier integrity and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrei I. Ivanov
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
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16
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Müller L, Keil R, Glaß M, Hatzfeld M. Plakophilin 4 controls the spatio-temporal activity of RhoA at adherens junctions to promote cortical actin ring formation and tissue tension. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:291. [PMID: 38970683 PMCID: PMC11335210 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05329-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Plakophilin 4 (PKP4) is a component of cell-cell junctions that regulates intercellular adhesion and Rho-signaling during cytokinesis with an unknown function during epidermal differentiation. Here we show that keratinocytes lacking PKP4 fail to develop a cortical actin ring, preventing adherens junction maturation and generation of tissue tension. Instead, PKP4-depleted cells display increased stress fibers. PKP4-dependent RhoA localization at AJs was required to activate a RhoA-ROCK2-MLCK-MLC2 axis and organize actin into a cortical ring. AJ-associated PKP4 provided a scaffold for the Rho activator ARHGEF2 and the RhoA effectors MLCK and MLC2, facilitating the spatio-temporal activation of RhoA signaling at cell junctions to allow cortical ring formation and actomyosin contraction. In contrast, association of PKP4 with the Rho suppressor ARHGAP23 reduced ARHGAP23 binding to RhoA which prevented RhoA activation in the cytoplasm and stress fiber formation. These data identify PKP4 as an AJ component that transduces mechanical signals into cytoskeletal organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Müller
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Charles Tanford Protein Research Center, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3A, 06120, Halle, Germany.
| | - René Keil
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Charles Tanford Protein Research Center, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3A, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Markus Glaß
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Charles Tanford Protein Research Center, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3A, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Mechthild Hatzfeld
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Charles Tanford Protein Research Center, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3A, 06120, Halle, Germany
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17
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Ray T, Shi D, Harris TJC. Confinement promotes nematic alignment of spindle-shaped cells during Drosophila embryogenesis. Development 2024; 151:dev202577. [PMID: 38864272 PMCID: PMC11234378 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Tissue morphogenesis is often controlled by actomyosin networks pulling on adherens junctions (AJs), but junctional myosin levels vary. At an extreme, the Drosophila embryo amnioserosa forms a horseshoe-shaped strip of aligned, spindle-shaped cells lacking junctional myosin. What are the bases of amnioserosal cell interactions and alignment? Compared with surrounding tissue, we find that amnioserosal AJ continuity has lesser dependence on α-catenin, the mediator of AJ-actomyosin association, and greater dependence on Bazooka/Par-3, a junction-associated scaffold protein. Microtubule bundles also run along amnioserosal AJs and support their long-range curvilinearity. Amnioserosal confinement is apparent from partial overlap of its spindle-shaped cells, its outward bulging from surrounding tissue and from compressive stress detected within the amnioserosa. Genetic manipulations that alter amnioserosal confinement by surrounding tissue also result in amnioserosal cells losing alignment and gaining topological defects characteristic of nematically ordered systems. With Bazooka depletion, confinement by surrounding tissue appears to be relatively normal and amnioserosal cells align despite their AJ fragmentation. Overall, the fully elongated amnioserosa appears to form through tissue-autonomous generation of spindle-shaped cells that nematically align in response to confinement by surrounding tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tirthankar Ray
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Damo Shi
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Tony J. C. Harris
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G5, Canada
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18
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Kim SH, Li ITS. Altering Cell Junctional Tension in Spheroids through E-Cadherin Engagement Modulation. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:3766-3776. [PMID: 38729097 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.4c00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Cadherin-mediated tension at adherens junctions (AJs) is fundamental for cell-cell adhesion and maintaining epithelial integrity. Despite the importance of manipulating AJs to dissect cell-cell interactions, existing three-dimensional (3D) multicellular models have not adequately addressed the precise manipulation of these junctions. To fill this gap, we introduce E-cadherin-modified tension gauge tethers (TGTs) at the junctions within spheroids. The system enables both quantification and modulation of junctional tension with specific DNA triggers. Using rupture-induced fluorescence, we successfully measure mechanical forces in 3D spheroids. Furthermore, mechanically strong TGTs can maintain normal E-cadherin-mediated adhesion. Employing toehold-mediated strand displacement allowed us to disrupt E-cadherin-specific cell-cell adhesion, consequently altering intracellular tension within the spheroids. Our methodology offers a robust and precise way to manipulate cell-cell adhesion and intracellular mechanics in spheroid models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Ho Kim
- Department of Chemistry, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia V1 V 1 V7, Canada
| | - Isaac T S Li
- Department of Chemistry, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia V1 V 1 V7, Canada
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Veronese S, Bacci PA, Garcia-Gimenez V, Canel Micheloud CC, Haro García NL, Sbarbati A. V-EMF therapy: A new painless and completely non-invasive treatment for striae gravidarum. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:2007-2014. [PMID: 38549181 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The appearance of striae gravidarum (SG) during pregnancy is a common problem. The most common SG are abdominal striae, which can cause the greatest sequelae after pregnancy, and in the long term. There are several solutions to prevent and treat these striae, but not all are completely effective, and not without side effects. AIMS The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a treatment that applies an electromagnetic field under vacuum (V-EMF therapy) on the abdominal SG. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of 26 women affected by abdominal SG and treated with V-EMF therapy. The results were evaluated using two different 5-point Likert Scales: one administered to the treated subjects to evaluate their satisfaction, and one to the doctors who performed the treatment, to evaluate the improvement of the striae. The presence of side effects, and the effects of sun exposure after treatment were also considered. RESULTS Only two treated subjects rated their level of satisfaction with a Score III on the Liker Scale. Everyone else expressed higher levels of satisfaction. Only one doctor rated the improvement of the striae with a Liker scale score of III. All the others reported greater improvements. No discomfort or side effects were noted either during the individual treatment sessions, or at the end of the treatment. The striae showed a newfound ability to tan. CONCLUSIONS V-EMF therapy proves to be a valid, safe, and effective treatment modality for SG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Veronese
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Pier Antonio Bacci
- Medical Centre for Vascular Diseases and Aesthetic Pathologies, Arezzo, Italy
| | - Victor Garcia-Gimenez
- Knowledge and Management in Physiological Aging Medicine Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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20
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Bala V, Patel V, Sewell-Loftin MK. Cadherin Expression Is Regulated by Mechanical Phenotypes of Fibroblasts in the Perivascular Matrix. Cells Tissues Organs 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38768571 DOI: 10.1159/000539319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The influence of mechanical forces generated by stromal cells in the perivascular matrix is thought to be a key regulator in controlling blood vessel growth. Cadherins are mechanosensors that facilitate and maintain cell-cell interactions and blood vessel integrity, but little is known about how stromal cells regulate cadherin signaling in the vasculature. Our objective was to investigate the relationship between mechanical phenotypes of stromal cells with cadherin expression in 3D tissue engineering models of vascular growth. METHODS Stromal cell lines were subjected to a bead displacement assay to track matrix distortions and characterize mechanical phenotypes in 3D microtissue models. These cells included human ventricular cardiac (NHCF), dermal (NHDF), lung (NHLF), breast cancer-associated (CAF), and normal breast fibroblasts (NBF). Cells were embedded in a fibrin matrix (10 mg/mL) with fluorescent tracker beads; images were collected every 30 min. We also studied endothelial cells (ECs) in co-culture with mechanically active or inactive stromal cells and quantified N-Cad, OB-Cad, and VE-Cad expression using immunofluorescence. RESULTS Bead displacement studies identified mechanically active stromal cells (CAFs, NHCFs, NHDFs) that generate matrix distortions and mechanically inactive cells (NHLFs, NBFs). CAFs, NHCFs, and NHDFs displaced the matrix with an average magnitude of 3.17 ± 0.11 μm, 3.13 ± 0.06 μm, and 2.76 ± 0.05 μm, respectively, while NHLFs and NBFs displaced the matrix with an average of 1.82 ± 0.05 μm and 2.66 ± 0.06 μm in fibrin gels. Compared to ECs only, CAFs + ECs as well as NBFs + ECs in 3D co-culture significantly decreased expression of VE-Cad; in addition, Pearson's Correlation Coefficient for N-Cad and VE-Cad showed a strong correlation (>0.7), suggesting cadherin colocalization. Using a microtissue model, we demonstrated that mechanical phenotypes associated with increased matrix deformations correspond to enhanced angiogenic growth. The results could suggest a mechanism to control tight junction regulation in developing vascular beds for tissue engineering scaffolds or understanding vascular growth during developmental processes. CONCLUSION Our studies provide novel data for how mechanical phenotype of stromal cells in combination with secreted factor profiles is related to cadherin regulation, localization, and vascularization potential in 3D microtissue models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishali Bala
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Vidhi Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Mary Kathryn Sewell-Loftin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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Nguyen TP, Otani T, Tsutsumi M, Kinoshita N, Fujiwara S, Nemoto T, Fujimori T, Furuse M. Tight junction membrane proteins regulate the mechanical resistance of the apical junctional complex. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202307104. [PMID: 38517380 PMCID: PMC10959758 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202307104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelia must be able to resist mechanical force to preserve tissue integrity. While intercellular junctions are known to be important for the mechanical resistance of epithelia, the roles of tight junctions (TJs) remain to be established. We previously demonstrated that epithelial cells devoid of the TJ membrane proteins claudins and JAM-A completely lack TJs and exhibit focal breakages of their apical junctions. Here, we demonstrate that apical junctions fracture when claudin/JAM-A-deficient cells undergo spontaneous cell stretching. The junction fracture was accompanied by actin disorganization, and actin polymerization was required for apical junction integrity in the claudin/JAM-A-deficient cells. Further deletion of CAR resulted in the disruption of ZO-1 molecule ordering at cell junctions, accompanied by severe defects in apical junction integrity. These results demonstrate that TJ membrane proteins regulate the mechanical resistance of the apical junctional complex in epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh Phuong Nguyen
- Division of Cell Structure, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Physiological Sciences Program, Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Tetsuhisa Otani
- Division of Cell Structure, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Physiological Sciences Program, Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
- Japan Science and Technology Agency, Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology, Kawaguchi, Japan
| | - Motosuke Tsutsumi
- Division of Biophotonics, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Biophotonics Research Group, Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Kinoshita
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Basic Biology Program, Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Sachiko Fujiwara
- Division of Cell Structure, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Physiological Sciences Program, Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Tomomi Nemoto
- Physiological Sciences Program, Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
- Division of Biophotonics, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Biophotonics Research Group, Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Fujimori
- Division of Embryology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Basic Biology Program, Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Mikio Furuse
- Division of Cell Structure, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
- Physiological Sciences Program, Graduate Institute for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Okazaki, Japan
- Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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22
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Campàs O, Noordstra I, Yap AS. Adherens junctions as molecular regulators of emergent tissue mechanics. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:252-269. [PMID: 38093099 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00688-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Tissue and organ development during embryogenesis relies on the collective and coordinated action of many cells. Recent studies have revealed that tissue material properties, including transitions between fluid and solid tissue states, are controlled in space and time to shape embryonic structures and regulate cell behaviours. Although the collective cellular flows that sculpt tissues are guided by tissue-level physical changes, these ultimately emerge from cellular-level and subcellular-level molecular mechanisms. Adherens junctions are key subcellular structures, built from clusters of classical cadherin receptors. They mediate physical interactions between cells and connect biochemical signalling to the physical characteristics of cell contacts, hence playing a fundamental role in tissue morphogenesis. In this Review, we take advantage of the results of recent, quantitative measurements of tissue mechanics to relate the molecular and cellular characteristics of adherens junctions, including adhesion strength, tension and dynamics, to the emergent physical state of embryonic tissues. We focus on systems in which cell-cell interactions are the primary contributor to morphogenesis, without significant contribution from cell-matrix interactions. We suggest that emergent tissue mechanics is an important direction for future research, bridging cell biology, developmental biology and mechanobiology to provide a holistic understanding of morphogenesis in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otger Campàs
- Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany.
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Ivar Noordstra
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alpha S Yap
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia.
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23
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Wu W, Zhao Z, Wang Y, Zhu G, Tan K, Liu M, Li L. Biomechanical Effects of Mechanical Stress on Cells Involved in Fracture Healing. Orthop Surg 2024; 16:811-820. [PMID: 38439564 PMCID: PMC10984830 DOI: 10.1111/os.14026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Fracture healing is a complex staged repair process in which the mechanical environment plays a key role. Bone tissue is very sensitive to mechanical stress stimuli, and the literature suggests that appropriate stress can promote fracture healing by altering cellular function. However, fracture healing is a coupled process involving multiple cell types that balance and limit each other to ensure proper fracture healing. The main cells that function during different stages of fracture healing are different, and the types and molecular mechanisms of stress required are also different. Most previous studies have used a single mechanical stimulus on individual mechanosensitive cells, and there is no relatively uniform standard for the size and frequency of the mechanical stress. Analyzing the mechanisms underlying the effects of mechanical stimulation on the metabolic regulation of signaling pathways in cells such as in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and osteoclasts is currently a challenging research hotspot. Grasping how stress affects the function of different cells at the molecular biology level can contribute to the refined management of fracture healing. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the relevant literature and describe the effects of mechanical stress on cells associated with fracture healing, and their possible signaling pathways, for the treatment of fractures and the further development of regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyong Wu
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhihui Zhao
- Orthopedic Department, The Fourth Central Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongqing Wang
- Orthopedic Department, The Fourth Central Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Gengbao Zhu
- General Clinical Research Center, Anhui Wanbei Coal-Electricity Group General Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Kemeng Tan
- General Clinical Research Center, Anhui Wanbei Coal-Electricity Group General Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Meiyue Liu
- Orthopedic Department, The Fourth Central Clinical School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lili Li
- General Clinical Research Center, Anhui Wanbei Coal-Electricity Group General Hospital, Suzhou, China
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24
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Tajvidi Safa B, Huang C, Kabla A, Yang R. Active viscoelastic models for cell and tissue mechanics. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:231074. [PMID: 38660600 PMCID: PMC11040246 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Living cells are out of equilibrium active materials. Cell-generated forces are transmitted across the cytoskeleton network and to the extracellular environment. These active force interactions shape cellular mechanical behaviour, trigger mechano-sensing, regulate cell adaptation to the microenvironment and can affect disease outcomes. In recent years, the mechanobiology community has witnessed the emergence of many experimental and theoretical approaches to study cells as mechanically active materials. In this review, we highlight recent advancements in incorporating active characteristics of cellular behaviour at different length scales into classic viscoelastic models by either adding an active tension-generating element or adjusting the resting length of an elastic element in the model. Summarizing the two groups of approaches, we will review the formulation and application of these models to understand cellular adaptation mechanisms in response to various types of mechanical stimuli, such as the effect of extracellular matrix properties and external loadings or deformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Tajvidi Safa
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE68588, USA
| | - Changjin Huang
- School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore639798, Singapore
| | - Alexandre Kabla
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, CambridgeCB2 1PZ, UK
| | - Ruiguo Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE68588, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI48824, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ), Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI48824, USA
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25
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de Plater L, Firmin J, Maître JL. Mechanical strengthening of cell-cell adhesion during mouse embryo compaction. Biophys J 2024:S0006-3495(24)00208-X. [PMID: 38528761 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Compaction is the first morphogenetic movement of the eutherian mammals and involves a developmentally regulated adhesion process. Previous studies investigated cellular and mechanical aspects of compaction. During mouse and human compaction, cells spread onto each other as a result of a contractility-mediated increase in surface tension pulling at the edges of their cell-cell contacts. However, how compaction may affect the mechanical stability of cell-cell contacts remains unknown. Here, we used a dual pipette aspiration assay on cell doublets to quantitatively analyze the mechanical stability of compacting mouse embryos. We measured increased mechanical stability of contacts with rupture forces growing from 40 to 70 nN, which was highly correlated with cell-cell contact expansion. Analyzing the dynamic molecular reorganization of cell-cell contacts, we find minimal recruitment of the cell-cell adhesion molecule Cdh1 (also known as E-cadherin) to contacts but we observe its reorganization into a peripheral adhesive ring. However, this reorganization is not associated with increased effective bond density, contrary to previous reports in other adhesive systems. Using genetics, we reduce the levels of Cdh1 or replace it with a chimeric adhesion molecule composed of the extracellular domain of Cdh1 and the intracellular domain of Cdh2 (also known as N-cadherin). We find that reducing the levels of Cdh1 impairs the mechanical stability of cell-cell contacts due to reduced contact growth, which nevertheless show higher effective bond density than wild-type contacts of similar size. On the other hand, chimeric adhesion molecules cannot form large or strong contacts indicating that the intracellular domain of Cdh2 is unable to reorganize contacts and/or is mechanically weaker than the one of Cdh1 in mouse embryos. Together, we find that mouse embryo compaction mechanically strengthens cell-cell adhesion via the expansion of Cdh1 adhesive rings that maintain pre-compaction levels of effective bond density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmilla de Plater
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
| | - Julie Firmin
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France; Service de Biologie de la Reproduction - CECOS, Paris Centre Hospital, APHP Centre, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Léon Maître
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France.
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26
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Clevenger AJ, McFarlin MK, Gorley JPM, Solberg SC, Madyastha AK, Raghavan SA. Advances in cancer mechanobiology: Metastasis, mechanics, and materials. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:011502. [PMID: 38449522 PMCID: PMC10917464 DOI: 10.1063/5.0186042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), tumor cells are exposed to numerous mechanical forces, both internally and externally, which contribute to the metastatic cascade. From the initial growth of the tumor to traveling through the vasculature and to the eventual colonization of distant organs, tumor cells are continuously interacting with their surroundings through physical contact and mechanical force application. The mechanical forces found in the TME can be simplified into three main categories: (i) shear stress, (ii) tension and strain, and (iii) solid stress and compression. Each force type can independently impact tumor growth and progression. Here, we review recent bioengineering strategies, which have been employed to establish the connection between mechanical forces and tumor progression. While many cancers are explored in this review, we place great emphasis on cancers that are understudied in their response to mechanical forces, such as ovarian and colorectal cancers. We discuss the major steps of metastatic transformation and present novel, recent advances in model systems used to study how mechanical forces impact the study of the metastatic cascade. We end by summarizing systems that incorporate multiple forces to expand the complexity of our understanding of how tumor cells sense and respond to mechanical forces in their environment. Future studies would also benefit from the inclusion of time or the aspect of mechanical memory to further enhance this field. While the knowledge of mechanical forces and tumor metastasis grows, developing novel materials and in vitro systems are essential to providing new insight into predicting, treating, and preventing cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maygan K. McFarlin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - John Paul M. Gorley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - Spencer C. Solberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
| | - Anirudh K. Madyastha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
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27
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Bovyn MJ, Haas PA. Shaping epithelial lumina under pressure. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:BST20230632C. [PMID: 38415294 PMCID: PMC10903447 DOI: 10.1042/bst20230632c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
The formation of fluid- or gas-filled lumina surrounded by epithelial cells pervades development and disease. We review the balance between lumen pressure and mechanical forces from the surrounding cells that governs lumen formation. We illustrate the mechanical side of this balance in several examples of increasing complexity, and discuss how recent work is beginning to elucidate how nonlinear and active mechanics and anisotropic biomechanical structures must conspire to overcome the isotropy of pressure to form complex, non-spherical lumina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Bovyn
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Nöthnitzer Straße 38, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Pierre A. Haas
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Nöthnitzer Straße 38, 01187 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Pfotenhauerstraße 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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28
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Lechuga S, Marino-Melendez A, Naydenov NG, Zafar A, Braga-Neto MB, Ivanov AI. Regulation of Epithelial and Endothelial Barriers by Molecular Chaperones. Cells 2024; 13:370. [PMID: 38474334 PMCID: PMC10931179 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The integrity and permeability of epithelial and endothelial barriers depend on the formation of tight junctions, adherens junctions, and a junction-associated cytoskeleton. The establishment of this junction-cytoskeletal module relies on the correct folding and oligomerization of its protein components. Molecular chaperones are known regulators of protein folding and complex formation in different cellular compartments. Mammalian cells possess an elaborate chaperone network consisting of several hundred chaperones and co-chaperones. Only a small part of this network has been linked, however, to the regulation of intercellular adhesions, and the systematic analysis of chaperone functions at epithelial and endothelial barriers is lacking. This review describes the functions and mechanisms of the chaperone-assisted regulation of intercellular junctions. The major focus of this review is on heat shock protein chaperones, their co-chaperones, and chaperonins since these molecules are the focus of the majority of the articles published on the chaperone-mediated control of tissue barriers. This review discusses the roles of chaperones in the regulation of the steady-state integrity of epithelial and vascular barriers as well as the disruption of these barriers by pathogenic factors and extracellular stressors. Since cytoskeletal coupling is essential for junctional integrity and remodeling, chaperone-assisted assembly of the actomyosin cytoskeleton is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Lechuga
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (S.L.); (A.M.-M.); (N.G.N.); (A.Z.); (M.B.B.-N.)
| | - Armando Marino-Melendez
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (S.L.); (A.M.-M.); (N.G.N.); (A.Z.); (M.B.B.-N.)
| | - Nayden G. Naydenov
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (S.L.); (A.M.-M.); (N.G.N.); (A.Z.); (M.B.B.-N.)
| | - Atif Zafar
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (S.L.); (A.M.-M.); (N.G.N.); (A.Z.); (M.B.B.-N.)
| | - Manuel B. Braga-Neto
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (S.L.); (A.M.-M.); (N.G.N.); (A.Z.); (M.B.B.-N.)
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Andrei I. Ivanov
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (S.L.); (A.M.-M.); (N.G.N.); (A.Z.); (M.B.B.-N.)
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29
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Veronese S, Aggarwal R, Giovanelli T, Sbarbati A. Hyper- and Hypopigmentation in a Subject with Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype VI: A New Treatment Option. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1036. [PMID: 38398349 PMCID: PMC10889290 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Laser therapies can cause hyper- and hypopigmentation of the skin. There is little evidence in the literature of effective treatments for these types of problems in Fitzpatrick skin phototypes IV-VI. The main aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the effects of a new therapy that combines the application of electromagnetic fields and vacuum on a subject with Fitzpatrick skin phototype VI, who presented extensive, laser-induced facial dyschromia. The secondary aim is to test the effectiveness of a free imaging software for assessing skin pigmentation. Methods: The level of improvement after therapy was evaluated, with a 5-point Likert scale, one month after the end of the treatment by the subject and by the doctor who performed the treatment, and by two blinded dermatologists. With the free software, a three-dimensional reconstruction of the treated area and the evaluation of the color distribution were performed. Results: Both the subject and the doctors involved in the study positively evaluated the effects of the treatment. The image analysis highlighted the homogenization of the skin color in the treated area. Conclusions: The combination of electromagnetic fields and vacuum for dyschromia treatments appears promising. The new method of assessing melanin levels resulted particularly efficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Veronese
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Rajeev Aggarwal
- Cardiff Cosmetic Clinic, Cardiff CF24 3WD, UK; (R.A.); (T.G.)
| | | | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
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30
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Mierke CT. Phenotypic Heterogeneity, Bidirectionality, Universal Cues, Plasticity, Mechanics, and the Tumor Microenvironment Drive Cancer Metastasis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:184. [PMID: 38397421 PMCID: PMC10887446 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor diseases become a huge problem when they embark on a path that advances to malignancy, such as the process of metastasis. Cancer metastasis has been thoroughly investigated from a biological perspective in the past, whereas it has still been less explored from a physical perspective. Until now, the intraluminal pathway of cancer metastasis has received the most attention, while the interaction of cancer cells with macrophages has received little attention. Apart from the biochemical characteristics, tumor treatments also rely on the tumor microenvironment, which is recognized to be immunosuppressive and, as has recently been found, mechanically stimulates cancer cells and thus alters their functions. The review article highlights the interaction of cancer cells with other cells in the vascular metastatic route and discusses the impact of this intercellular interplay on the mechanical characteristics and subsequently on the functionality of cancer cells. For instance, macrophages can guide cancer cells on their intravascular route of cancer metastasis, whereby they can help to circumvent the adverse conditions within blood or lymphatic vessels. Macrophages induce microchannel tunneling that can possibly avoid mechanical forces during extra- and intravasation and reduce the forces within the vascular lumen due to vascular flow. The review article highlights the vascular route of cancer metastasis and discusses the key players in this traditional route. Moreover, the effects of flows during the process of metastasis are presented, and the effects of the microenvironment, such as mechanical influences, are characterized. Finally, the increased knowledge of cancer metastasis opens up new perspectives for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tanja Mierke
- Faculty of Physics and Earth System Science, Peter Debye Institute of Soft Matter Physics, Biological Physics Division, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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31
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Esmangart de Bournonville T, Jaglarz MK, Durel E, Le Borgne R. ESCRT-III-dependent adhesive and mechanical changes are triggered by a mechanism detecting alteration of septate junction integrity in Drosophila epithelial cells. eLife 2024; 13:e91246. [PMID: 38305711 PMCID: PMC10959524 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Barrier functions of proliferative epithelia are constantly challenged by mechanical and chemical constraints. How epithelia respond to and cope with disturbances of barrier functions to allow tissue integrity maintenance is poorly characterised. Cellular junctions play an important role in this process and intracellular traffic contribute to their homeostasis. Here, we reveal that, in Drosophila pupal notum, alteration of the bi- or tricellular septate junctions (SJs) triggers a mechanism with two prominent outcomes. On one hand, there is an increase in the levels of E-cadherin, F-actin, and non-muscle myosin II in the plane of adherens junctions. On the other hand, β-integrin/Vinculin-positive cell contacts are reinforced along the lateral and basal membranes. We found that the weakening of SJ integrity, caused by the depletion of bi- or tricellular SJ components, alters ESCRT-III/Vps32/Shrub distribution, reduces degradation and instead favours recycling of SJ components, an effect that extends to other recycled transmembrane protein cargoes including Crumbs, its effector β-Heavy Spectrin Karst, and β-integrin. We propose a mechanism by which epithelial cells, upon sensing alterations of the SJ, reroute the function of Shrub to adjust the balance of degradation/recycling of junctional cargoes and thereby compensate for barrier junction defects to maintain epithelial integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Esmangart de Bournonville
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR 6290RennesFrance
- Global Health Institute, School of Life Science, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Mariusz K Jaglarz
- Department of Developmental Biology and Invertebrate Morphology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in KrakowKrakowPoland
| | - Emeline Durel
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR 6290RennesFrance
| | - Roland Le Borgne
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, IGDR (Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes) – UMR 6290RennesFrance
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32
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Shi Y, Li D, Yi B, Tang H, Xu T, Zhang Y. Physiological cyclic stretching potentiates the cell-cell junctions in vascular endothelial layer formed on aligned fiber substrate. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 157:213751. [PMID: 38219418 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
In vascular tissue engineering, formation of stable endothelial cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesions is essential for maintaining long-term patency of the tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs). In this study, sheet-like aligned fibrous substrates of poly(l-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) were prepared by electrospinning to provide basement membrane-resembling structural support to endothelial cells (ECs). Cyclic stretching at physiological and pathological levels was then applied to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cultured on chosen fibrous substrate using a force-loading device, from which effects of the cyclic stretching on cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesions were examined. It was found that applying uniaxial 1 Hz cyclic stretch at physiological levels (5 % and 10 % elongation) strengthened the cell-cell junctions, thus leading to improved structural integrity, functional expression and resistance to thrombin-induced damaging impacts in the formed endothelial layer. The cell-cell junctions were disrupted at pathological level (15 % elongation) cyclic stretching, which however facilitated the formation of focal adhesions (FAs) at cell-substrate interface. Mechanistically, the effects of cyclic stretching on endothelial cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesions were identified to be correlated with the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. Results from this study highlight the relevance between applying dynamic mechanical stimulation and maintaining the structural integrity of the formed endothelial layer, and implicate a necessity to implement appropriate dynamic mechanical training (i.e., preconditioning) to obtain tissue-engineered blood vessels with long-term patency post-implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shi
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Donghong Li
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingcheng Yi
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Han Tang
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Xu
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanzhong Zhang
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Donghua University, Shanghai, China.
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Kroeger B, Manning SA, Fonseka Y, Oorschot V, Crawford SA, Ramm G, Harvey KF. Basal spot junctions of Drosophila epithelial tissues respond to morphogenetic forces and regulate Hippo signaling. Dev Cell 2024; 59:262-279.e6. [PMID: 38134928 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Organ size is controlled by numerous factors including mechanical forces, which are mediated in part by the Hippo pathway. In growing Drosophila epithelial tissues, cytoskeletal tension influences Hippo signaling by modulating the localization of key pathway proteins to different apical domains. Here, we discovered a Hippo signaling hub at basal spot junctions, which form at the basal-most point of the lateral membranes and resemble adherens junctions in protein composition. Basal spot junctions recruit the central kinase Warts via Ajuba and E-cadherin, which prevent Warts activation by segregating it from upstream Hippo pathway proteins. Basal spot junctions are prominent when tissues undergo morphogenesis and are highly sensitive to fluctuations in cytoskeletal tension. They are distinct from focal adhesions, but the latter profoundly influences basal spot junction abundance by modulating the basal-medial actomyosin network and tension experienced by spot junctions. Thus, basal spot junctions couple morphogenetic forces to Hippo pathway activity and organ growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Kroeger
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia; Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Samuel A Manning
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia; Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Yoshana Fonseka
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Viola Oorschot
- Ramaciotti Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Simon A Crawford
- Ramaciotti Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Georg Ramm
- Ramaciotti Centre for Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Kieran F Harvey
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia; Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
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Mann Z, Lim F, Verma S, Nanavati BN, Davies JM, Begun J, Hardeman EC, Gunning PW, Subramanyam D, Yap AS, Duszyc K. Preexisting tissue mechanical hypertension at adherens junctions disrupts apoptotic extrusion in epithelia. Mol Biol Cell 2024; 35:br3. [PMID: 37903230 PMCID: PMC10881161 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-08-0337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Apical extrusion is a tissue-intrinsic process that allows epithelia to eliminate unfit or surplus cells. This is exemplified by the early extrusion of apoptotic cells, which is critical to maintain the epithelial barrier and prevent inflammation. Apoptotic extrusion is an active mechanical process, which involves mechanotransduction between apoptotic cells and their neighbors, as well as local changes in tissue mechanics. Here we report that the preexisting mechanical tension at adherens junctions (AJs) conditions the efficacy of apoptotic extrusion. Specifically, increasing baseline mechanical tension by overexpression of a phosphomimetic Myosin II regulatory light chain (MRLC) compromises apoptotic extrusion. This occurs when tension is increased in either the apoptotic cell or its surrounding epithelium. Further, we find that the proinflammatory cytokine, TNFα, stimulates Myosin II and increases baseline AJ tension to disrupt apical extrusion, causing apoptotic cells to be retained in monolayers. Importantly, reversal of mechanical tension with an inhibitory MRLC mutant or tropomyosin inhibitors is sufficient to restore apoptotic extrusion in TNFα-treated monolayers. Together, these findings demonstrate that baseline levels of tissue tension are important determinants of apoptotic extrusion, which can potentially be coopted by pathogenetic factors to disrupt the homeostatic response of epithelia to apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoya Mann
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Fayth Lim
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Suzie Verma
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Bageshri N. Nanavati
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Julie M. Davies
- Mater Research – The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia 4102
| | - Jakob Begun
- Mater Research – The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia 4102
- Department of Gastroenterology, Mater Hospital Brisbane, South Brisbane, Australia 4101
| | - Edna C. Hardeman
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Univeristy of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 2052
| | - Peter W. Gunning
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Univeristy of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 2052
| | - Deepa Subramanyam
- National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune 411007, India
| | - Alpha S. Yap
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Kinga Duszyc
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia 4072
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35
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Gooshvar S, Madhu G, Ruszczyk M, Prakash VN. Non-Bilaterians as Model Systems for Tissue Mechanics. Integr Comp Biol 2023; 63:1442-1454. [PMID: 37355780 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icad074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In animals, epithelial tissues are barriers against the external environment, providing protection against biological, chemical, and physical damage. Depending on the organism's physiology and behavior, these tissues encounter different types of mechanical forces and need to provide a suitable adaptive response to ensure success. Therefore, understanding tissue mechanics in different contexts is an important research area. Here, we review recent tissue mechanics discoveries in three early divergent non-bilaterian systems-Trichoplax adhaerens, Hydra vulgaris, and Aurelia aurita. We highlight each animal's simple body plan and biology and unique, rapid tissue remodeling phenomena that play a crucial role in its physiology. We also discuss the emergent large-scale mechanics in these systems that arise from small-scale phenomena. Finally, we emphasize the potential of these non-bilaterian animals to be model systems in a bottom-up approach for further investigation in tissue mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Setareh Gooshvar
- Department of Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, 33146 FL, USA
| | - Gopika Madhu
- Department of Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, 33146 FL, USA
| | - Melissa Ruszczyk
- Department of Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, 33146 FL, USA
| | - Vivek N Prakash
- Department of Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, 33146 FL, USA
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, 33146 FL, USA
- Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric and Earth Science, University of Miami, 33149 FL, USA
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36
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Mezher M, Dumbali S, Fenn I, Lamb C, Miller C, Sharmin S, Cabe JI, Bejar-Padilla V, Conway D, Maruthamuthu V. Vinculin is essential for sustaining normal levels of endogenous forces at cell-cell contacts. Biophys J 2023; 122:4518-4527. [PMID: 38350000 PMCID: PMC10719050 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Transmission of cell-generated (i.e., endogenous) tension at cell-cell contacts is crucial for tissue shape changes during morphogenesis and adult tissue repair in tissues such as epithelia. E-cadherin-based adhesions at cell-cell contacts are the primary means by which endogenous tension is transmitted between cells. The E-cadherin-β-catenin-α-catenin complex mechanically couples to the actin cytoskeleton (and thereby the cell's contractile machinery) both directly and indirectly. However, the key adhesion constituents required for substantial endogenous force transmission at these adhesions in cell-cell contacts are unclear. Due to the role of α-catenin as a mechanotransducer that recruits vinculin at cell-cell contacts, we expected α-catenin to be essential for sustaining normal levels of force transmission. Instead, using the traction force imbalance method to determine the inter-cellular force at a single cell-cell contact between cell pairs, we found that it is vinculin that is essential for sustaining normal levels of endogenous force transmission, with absence of vinculin decreasing the inter-cellular tension by over 50%. Our results constrain the potential mechanical pathways of force transmission at cell-cell contacts and suggest that vinculin can transmit forces at E-cadherin adhesions independent of α-catenin, possibly through β-catenin. Furthermore, we tested the ability of lateral cell-cell contacts to withstand external stretch and found that both vinculin and α-catenin are essential to maintain cell-cell contact stability under external forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazen Mezher
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Sandeep Dumbali
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Ian Fenn
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Carter Lamb
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Conrad Miller
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Saika Sharmin
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia
| | - Jolene I Cabe
- Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Vidal Bejar-Padilla
- Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Daniel Conway
- Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Venkat Maruthamuthu
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia.
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Chattaraj S, Torre M, Kalcher C, Stukowski A, Morganti S, Reali A, Pasqualini FS. SEM 2: Introducing mechanics in cell and tissue modeling using coarse-grained homogeneous particle dynamics. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:046118. [PMID: 38075209 PMCID: PMC10699888 DOI: 10.1063/5.0166829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Modeling multiscale mechanics in shape-shifting engineered tissues, such as organoids and organs-on-chip, is both important and challenging. In fact, it is difficult to model relevant tissue-level large non-linear deformations mediated by discrete cell-level behaviors, such as migration and proliferation. One approach to solve this problem is subcellular element modeling (SEM), where ensembles of coarse-grained particles interacting via empirically defined potentials are used to model individual cells while preserving cell rheology. However, an explicit treatment of multiscale mechanics in SEM was missing. Here, we incorporated analyses and visualizations of particle level stress and strain in the open-source software SEM++ to create a new framework that we call subcellular element modeling and mechanics or SEM2. To demonstrate SEM2, we provide a detailed mechanics treatment of classical SEM simulations including single-cell creep, migration, and proliferation. We also introduce an additional force to control nuclear positioning during migration and proliferation. Finally, we show how SEM2 can be used to model proliferation in engineered cell culture platforms such as organoids and organs-on-chip. For every scenario, we present the analysis of cell emergent behaviors as offered by SEM++ and examples of stress or strain distributions that are possible with SEM2. Throughout the study, we only used first-principles literature values or parametric studies, so we left to the Discussion a qualitative comparison of our insights with recently published results. The code for SEM2 is available on GitHub at https://github.com/Synthetic-Physiology-Lab/sem2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandipan Chattaraj
- Synthetic Physiology Lab, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michele Torre
- Computational Mechanics and Advanced Materials Group, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Simone Morganti
- Computational Mechanics and Advanced Materials Group, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Reali
- Computational Mechanics and Advanced Materials Group, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Silvio Pasqualini
- Synthetic Physiology Lab, Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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38
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Wibbe N, Ebnet K. Cell Adhesion at the Tight Junctions: New Aspects and New Functions. Cells 2023; 12:2701. [PMID: 38067129 PMCID: PMC10706136 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Tight junctions (TJ) are cell-cell adhesive structures that define the permeability of barrier-forming epithelia and endothelia. In contrast to this seemingly static function, TJs display a surprisingly high molecular complexity and unexpected dynamic regulation, which allows the TJs to maintain a barrier in the presence of physiological forces and in response to perturbations. Cell-cell adhesion receptors play key roles during the dynamic regulation of TJs. They connect individual cells within cellular sheets and link sites of cell-cell contacts to the underlying actin cytoskeleton. Recent findings support the roles of adhesion receptors in transmitting mechanical forces and promoting phase separation. In this review, we discuss the newly discovered functions of cell adhesion receptors localized at the TJs and their role in the regulation of the barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolina Wibbe
- Institute-Associated Research Group "Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity", Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Klaus Ebnet
- Institute-Associated Research Group "Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity", Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, D-48149 Münster, Germany
- Cells-in-Motion Cluster of Excellence (EXC 1003-CiM), University of Münster, D-48419 Münster, Germany
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39
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Brooks JW, Tillu V, Eckert J, Verma S, Collins BM, Parton RG, Yap AS. Caveola mechanotransduction reinforces the cortical cytoskeleton to promote epithelial resilience. Mol Biol Cell 2023; 34:ar120. [PMID: 37672337 PMCID: PMC10846620 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-05-0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As physical barriers, epithelia must preserve their integrity when challenged by mechanical stresses. Cell-cell junctions linked to the cortical cytoskeleton play key roles in this process, often with mechanotransduction mechanisms that reinforce tissues. Caveolae are mechanosensitive organelles that buffer tension via disassembly. Loss of caveolae, through caveolin-1 or cavin1 depletion, causes activation of PtdIns(4, 5)P2 signaling, recruitment of FMNL2 formin, and enhanced-cortical actin assembly. How this equates to physiological responses in epithelial cells containing endogenous caveolae is unknown. Here we examined the effect of mechanically inducing acute disassembly of caveolae in epithelia. We show that perturbation of caveolae, through direct mechanical stress, reinforces the actin cortex at adherens junctions. Increasing interactions with membrane lipids by introducing multiple phosphatidylserine-binding undecad cavin1 (UC1) repeat domains into cavin1 rendered caveolae more stable to mechanical stimuli. This molecular stabilization blocked cortical reinforcement in response to mechanical stress. Cortical reinforcement elicited by the mechanically induced disassembly of caveolae increased epithelial resilience against tensile stresses. These findings identify the actin cortex as a target of caveola mechanotransduction that contributes to epithelial integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W. Brooks
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Vikas Tillu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Julia Eckert
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Suzie Verma
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Brett M. Collins
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Robert G. Parton
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
| | - Alpha S. Yap
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia 4072
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40
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Laura S, Veronese S, Alberti G, Bacci PA, Beatini A, Fulgione E, Urbani C, Sbarbati A. Vacuum and electromagnetic field in synergy for skin rejuvenation: A retrospective study on 217 patients. J Cosmet Dermatol 2023; 22:2989-2995. [PMID: 37340588 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.15871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are many aesthetic treatments aimed at combating aging. In the most common and frequently used ones there are often side effects, albeit minor ones. However, sometimes it is necessary to use medications before or after treatments. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the anti-aging efficacy and application safety of a therapy based on the combination of vacuum and electromagnetic fields (EMFs). METHODS A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the aesthetic effects of the treatment on 217 subjects. Before treatment (T0) and after the last session (T1), skin hydration levels, the amount of sebum present and the pH were measured. The presence of discomfort during the sessions and side effects at T1 was verified. At T1, the levels of satisfaction of the patients and of the doctors who performed the treatment were assessed. At 3 and 6 months of follow-up the aesthetic results were re-evaluated. RESULTS For all treated subjects, an evident qualitative improvement was observed in the quality of the skin of the neck and face, with an increase in tone and a reduction in wrinkles. The instrumental tests highlighted a normalization of skin hydration, pH, and sebum values. High levels of satisfaction at T0 and good stability of results up to 6 months of follow-up were reported. No discomfort was referred during the treatment sessions, nor any side effects after the entire treatment. CONCLUSIONS The treatment that exploits the synergy between vacuum and EMFs is very promising given the effectiveness and safety of the technique.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sheila Veronese
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Alberti
- International School of Aesthetic Medicine of the Fatebenefratelli Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Pier Antonio Bacci
- Medical Centre for Vascular Diseases and Aesthetic Pathologies, Arezzo, Italy
| | | | - Elisabetta Fulgione
- Dermatological Clinic University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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41
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Cencer CS, Silverman JB, Meenderink LM, Krystofiak ES, Millis BA, Tyska MJ. Adhesion-based capture stabilizes nascent microvilli at epithelial cell junctions. Dev Cell 2023; 58:2048-2062.e7. [PMID: 37832537 PMCID: PMC10615885 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
To maximize solute transport, epithelial cells build an apical "brush border," where thousands of microvilli are linked to their neighbors by protocadherin-containing intermicrovillar adhesion complexes (IMACs). Previous studies established that the IMAC is needed to build a mature brush border, but how this complex contributes to the accumulation of new microvilli during differentiation remains unclear. We found that early in differentiation, mouse, human, and porcine epithelial cells exhibit a marginal accumulation of microvilli, which span junctions and interact with protrusions on neighboring cells using IMAC protocadherins. These transjunctional IMACs are highly stable and reinforced by tension across junctions. Finally, long-term live imaging showed that the accumulation of microvilli at cell margins consistently leads to accumulation in medial regions. Thus, nascent microvilli are stabilized by a marginal capture mechanism that depends on the formation of transjunctional IMACs. These results may offer insights into how apical specializations are assembled in diverse epithelial systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Cencer
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Jennifer B Silverman
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Leslie M Meenderink
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Health Care System, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Evan S Krystofiak
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Bryan A Millis
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University School of Engineering, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Matthew J Tyska
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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42
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Zhao N, Chung TD, Guo Z, Jamieson JJ, Liang L, Linville RM, Pessell AF, Wang L, Searson PC. The influence of physiological and pathological perturbations on blood-brain barrier function. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1289894. [PMID: 37937070 PMCID: PMC10626523 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1289894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is located at the interface between the vascular system and the brain parenchyma, and is responsible for communication with systemic circulation and peripheral tissues. During life, the BBB can be subjected to a wide range of perturbations or stresses that may be endogenous or exogenous, pathological or therapeutic, or intended or unintended. The risk factors for many diseases of the brain are multifactorial and involve perturbations that may occur simultaneously (e.g., two-hit model for Alzheimer's disease) and result in different outcomes. Therefore, it is important to understand the influence of individual perturbations on BBB function in isolation. Here we review the effects of eight perturbations: mechanical forces, temperature, electromagnetic radiation, hypoxia, endogenous factors, exogenous factors, chemical factors, and pathogens. While some perturbations may result in acute or chronic BBB disruption, many are also exploited for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The resultant outcome on BBB function depends on the dose (or magnitude) and duration of the perturbation. Homeostasis may be restored by self-repair, for example, via processes such as proliferation of affected cells or angiogenesis to create new vasculature. Transient or sustained BBB dysfunction may result in acute or pathological symptoms, for example, microhemorrhages or hypoperfusion. In more extreme cases, perturbations may lead to cytotoxicity and cell death, for example, through exposure to cytotoxic plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhao
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tracy D. Chung
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Zhaobin Guo
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - John J. Jamieson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Lily Liang
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Raleigh M. Linville
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Alex F. Pessell
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Linus Wang
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Peter C. Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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43
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Merle T, Theis S, Kamgoué A, Martin E, Sarron F, Gay G, Farge E, Suzanne M. DISSECT is a tool to segment and explore cell and tissue mechanics in highly deformed 3D epithelia. Dev Cell 2023; 58:2181-2193.e4. [PMID: 37586367 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Understanding morphogenesis strongly relies on the characterization of tissue topology and mechanical properties deduced from imaging data. The development of new imaging techniques offers the possibility to go beyond the analysis of mostly flat surfaces and image and analyze complex tissue organization in depth. An important bottleneck in this field is the need to analyze imaging datasets and extract quantifications not only of cell and tissue morphology but also of the cytoskeletal network's organization in an automatized way. Here, we describe a method, called DISSECT, for DisPerSE (Discrete Persistent Structure Extractor)-based Segmentation and Exploration of Cells and Tissues, that offers the opportunity to extract automatically, in strongly deformed epithelia, a precise characterization of the spatial organization of a given cytoskeletal network combined with morphological quantifications in highly remodeled three-dimensional (3D) epithelial tissues. We believe that this method, applied here to Drosophila tissues, will be of general interest in the expanding field of morphogenesis and tissue biomechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Merle
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology unit (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France.
| | - Sophie Theis
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology unit (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Alain Kamgoué
- Image Processing Facility, Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Emmanuel Martin
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology unit (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Florian Sarron
- IRAP, Institut de Recherche en Astrophysique et Planétologie, CNRS, 14 avenue E. Belin, 31400, Toulouse, France; Université de Toulouse, CNES, UPS-OMP, 14 avenue E. Belin, 31400 Toulouse, France
| | - Guillaume Gay
- Aix Marseille Université, Mutli-Engineering Platform, CENTURI, Marseille, France
| | - Emmanuel Farge
- Mechanics and Genetics of Embryonic Development group, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR168, Inserm, Marie Curie UnivParis 06, Institut Curie, 11 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Magali Suzanne
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology unit (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France.
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44
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Ben Meriem Z, Mateo T, Faccini J, Denais C, Dusfour-Castan R, Guynet C, Merle T, Suzanne M, Di-Luoffo M, Guillermet-Guibert J, Alric B, Landiech S, Malaquin L, Mesnilgrente F, Laborde A, Mazenq L, Courson R, Delarue M. A microfluidic mechano-chemostat for tissues and organisms reveals that confined growth is accompanied with increased macromolecular crowding. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:4445-4455. [PMID: 37740366 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00313b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Conventional culture conditions are oftentimes insufficient to study tissues, organisms, or 3D multicellular assemblies. They lack both dynamic chemical and mechanical control over the microenvironment. While specific microfluidic devices have been developed to address chemical control, they often do not allow the control of compressive forces emerging when cells proliferate in a confined environment. Here, we present a generic microfluidic device to control both chemical and mechanical compressive forces. This device relies on the use of sliding elements consisting of microfabricated rods that can be inserted inside a microfluidic device. Sliding elements enable the creation of reconfigurable closed culture chambers for the study of whole organisms or model micro-tissues. By confining the micro-tissues, we studied the biophysical impact of growth-induced pressure and showed that this mechanical stress is associated with an increase in macromolecular crowding, shedding light on this understudied type of mechanical stress. Our mechano-chemostat allows the long-term culture of biological samples and can be used to study both the impact of specific conditions as well as the consequences of mechanical compression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiphaine Mateo
- LAAS-CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
| | - Julien Faccini
- LAAS-CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
| | - Céline Denais
- LAAS-CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
| | - Romane Dusfour-Castan
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie et de Génétique Moléculaires, Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS, Université de Toulouse, F-31000, Toulouse, France
| | - Catherine Guynet
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie et de Génétique Moléculaires, Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS, Université de Toulouse, F-31000, Toulouse, France
| | - Tatiana Merle
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology unit (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, France
| | - Magali Suzanne
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology unit (MCD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, France
| | - Mickaël Di-Luoffo
- INSERM U1037, CRCT, Université de Toulouse, F-31037 Toulouse, France
| | - Julie Guillermet-Guibert
- INSERM U1037, CRCT, Université de Toulouse, F-31037 Toulouse, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence TouCAN, F-31037 Toulouse, France
| | - Baptiste Alric
- LAAS-CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
| | | | | | | | - Adrian Laborde
- LAAS-CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
| | - Laurent Mazenq
- LAAS-CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
| | | | - Morgan Delarue
- LAAS-CNRS, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
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45
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Gou J, Zhang T, Othmer HG. The Interaction of Mechanics and the Hippo Pathway in Drosophila melanogaster. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4840. [PMID: 37835534 PMCID: PMC10571775 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila melanogaster has emerged as an ideal system for studying the networks that control tissue development and homeostasis and, given the similarity of the pathways involved, controlled and uncontrolled growth in mammalian systems. The signaling pathways used in patterning the Drosophila wing disc are well known and result in the emergence of interaction of these pathways with the Hippo signaling pathway, which plays a central role in controlling cell proliferation and apoptosis. Mechanical effects are another major factor in the control of growth, but far less is known about how they exert their control. Herein, we develop a mathematical model that integrates the mechanical interactions between cells, which occur via adherens and tight junctions, with the intracellular actin network and the Hippo pathway so as to better understand cell-autonomous and non-autonomous control of growth in response to mechanical forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Gou
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Riverside, CA 92507, USA;
| | - Tianhao Zhang
- School of Mathematics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Hans G. Othmer
- School of Mathematics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
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46
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Dawson LW, Cronin NM, DeMali KA. Mechanotransduction: Forcing a change in metabolism. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 84:102219. [PMID: 37651955 PMCID: PMC10523412 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial and endothelial cells experience numerous mechanical cues throughout their lifetimes. Cells resist these forces by fortifying their cytoskeletal networks and adhesions. This reinforcement is energetically costly. Here we describe how these energetic demands are met. We focus on the response of epithelial and endothelial cells to mechanical cues, describe the energetic needs of epithelia and endothelia, and identify the mechanisms these cells employ to increase glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and fatty acid metabolism. We discuss the similarities and differences in the responses of the two cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan W Dawson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Nicholas M Cronin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Kris A DeMali
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
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47
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Son YJ, Keum C, Kim M, Jeong G, Jin S, Hwang HW, Kim H, Lee K, Jeon H, Kim H, Pahk KJ, Jang HW, Sun JY, Han HS, Lee KH, Ok MR, Kim YC, Jeong Y. Selective Cell-Cell Adhesion Regulation via Cyclic Mechanical Deformation Induced by Ultrafast Nanovibrations. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 37751467 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c08941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The adoption of dynamic mechanomodulation to regulate cellular behavior is an alternative to the use of chemical drugs, allowing spatiotemporal control. However, cell-selective targeting of mechanical stimuli is challenging due to the lack of strategies with which to convert macroscopic mechanical movements to different cellular responses. Here, we designed a nanoscale vibrating surface that controls cell behavior via selective repetitive cell deformation based on a poroelastic cell model. The vibrating indentations induce repetitive water redistribution in the cells with water redistribution rates faster than the vibrating rate; however, in the opposite case, cells perceive the vibrations as a one-time stimulus. The selective regulation of cell-cell adhesion through adjusting the frequency of nanovibration was demonstrated by suppression of cadherin expression in smooth muscle cells (fast water redistribution rate) with no change in vascular endothelial cells (slow water redistribution rate). This technique may provide a new strategy for cell-type-specific mechanical stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Ju Son
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Changjoon Keum
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Minsoo Kim
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Goeen Jeong
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyeong Jin
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Won Hwang
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewon Kim
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungwoo Lee
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hojeong Jeon
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hojun Kim
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Joo Pahk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Won Jang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Yun Sun
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Seop Han
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwan Hyi Lee
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung-Ryul Ok
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Chan Kim
- Center for Biomaterials, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngdo Jeong
- Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of HY-KIST Bio-convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
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48
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Alberici Delsin LE, Plutoni C, Clouvel A, Keil S, Marpeaux L, Elouassouli L, Khavari A, Ehrlicher AJ, Emery G. MAP4K4 regulates forces at cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesions to promote collective cell migration. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202302196. [PMID: 37369604 PMCID: PMC10300198 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Collective cell migration is not only important for development and tissue homeostasis but can also promote cancer metastasis. To migrate collectively, cells need to coordinate cellular extensions and retractions, adhesion sites dynamics, and forces generation and transmission. Nevertheless, the regulatory mechanisms coordinating these processes remain elusive. Using A431 carcinoma cells, we identify the kinase MAP4K4 as a central regulator of collective migration. We show that MAP4K4 inactivation blocks the migration of clusters, whereas its overexpression decreases cluster cohesion. MAP4K4 regulates protrusion and retraction dynamics, remodels the actomyosin cytoskeleton, and controls the stability of both cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesion. MAP4K4 promotes focal adhesion disassembly through the phosphorylation of the actin and plasma membrane crosslinker moesin but disassembles adherens junctions through a moesin-independent mechanism. By analyzing traction and intercellular forces, we found that MAP4K4 loss of function leads to a tensional disequilibrium throughout the cell cluster, increasing the traction forces and the tension loading at the cell-cell adhesions. Together, our results indicate that MAP4K4 activity is a key regulator of biomechanical forces at adhesion sites, promoting collective migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Elis Alberici Delsin
- Vesicular Trafficking and Cell Signalling Research Unit, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer https://ror.org/0161xgx34 (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Cédric Plutoni
- Vesicular Trafficking and Cell Signalling Research Unit, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer https://ror.org/0161xgx34 (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Anna Clouvel
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sarah Keil
- Vesicular Trafficking and Cell Signalling Research Unit, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer https://ror.org/0161xgx34 (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Léa Marpeaux
- Vesicular Trafficking and Cell Signalling Research Unit, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer https://ror.org/0161xgx34 (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Lina Elouassouli
- Vesicular Trafficking and Cell Signalling Research Unit, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer https://ror.org/0161xgx34 (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Adele Khavari
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Gregory Emery
- Vesicular Trafficking and Cell Signalling Research Unit, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer https://ror.org/0161xgx34 (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
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49
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Kim OH, Jeon TJ, So YI, Shin YK, Lee HJ. Applications of Bioinspired Platforms for Enhancing Immunomodulatory Function of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. Int J Stem Cells 2023; 16:251-259. [PMID: 37385634 PMCID: PMC10465339 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc22211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have attracted scientific and medical interest due to their self-renewing properties, pluripotency, and paracrine function. However, one of the main limitations to the clinical application of MSCs is their loss of efficacy after transplantation in vivo. Various bioengineering technologies to provide stem cell niche-like conditions have the potential to overcome this limitation. Here, focusing on the stem cell niche microenvironment, studies to maximize the immunomodulatory potential of MSCs by controlling biomechanical stimuli, including shear stress, hydrostatic pressure, stretch, and biophysical cues, such as extracellular matrix mimetic substrates, are discussed. The application of biomechanical forces or biophysical cues to the stem cell microenvironment will be beneficial for enhancing the immunomodulatory function of MSCs during cultivation and overcoming the current limitations of MSC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ok-Hyeon Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Jin Jeon
- Department of Global Innovative Drugs, Graduate School of Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young In So
- Department of Global Innovative Drugs, Graduate School of Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong Kyoo Shin
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Jung Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Global Innovative Drugs, Graduate School of Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
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50
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Yoder MW, Wright NT, Borzok MA. Calpain Regulation and Dysregulation-Its Effects on the Intercalated Disk. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11726. [PMID: 37511485 PMCID: PMC10380737 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The intercalated disk is a cardiac specific structure composed of three main protein complexes-adherens junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions-that work in concert to provide mechanical stability and electrical synchronization to the heart. Each substructure is regulated through a variety of mechanisms including proteolysis. Calpain proteases, a class of cysteine proteases dependent on calcium for activation, have recently emerged as important regulators of individual intercalated disk components. In this review, we will examine how calcium homeostasis regulates normal calpain function. We will also explore how calpains modulate gap junctions, desmosomes, and adherens junctions activity by targeting specific proteins, and describe the molecular mechanisms of how calpain dysregulation leads to structural and signaling defects within the heart. We will then examine how changes in calpain activity affects cardiomyocytes, and how such changes underlie various heart diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micah W Yoder
- Biochemistry, Chemistry, Engineering, and Physics Department, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, 31 Academy St., Mansfield, PA 16933, USA
| | - Nathan T Wright
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, James Madison University, 901 Carrier Dr., Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA
| | - Maegen A Borzok
- Biochemistry, Chemistry, Engineering, and Physics Department, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, 31 Academy St., Mansfield, PA 16933, USA
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