1
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Bharathan NK, Mattheyses AL, Kowalczyk AP. The desmosome comes into focus. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202404120. [PMID: 39120608 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202404120] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The desmosome is a cell-cell adhesive junction that provides integrity and mechanical resistance to tissues through its attachment to the intermediate filament cytoskeleton. Defects in desmosomes cause diseases impacting the heart, epidermis, and other epithelia. In this review, we provide a historical perspective on the discovery of the desmosome and how the evolution of cellular imaging technologies revealed insights into desmosome structure and function. We also discuss recent findings using contemporary imaging approaches that have informed the molecular order, three-dimensional architecture, and associations of desmosomes with organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum. Finally, we provide an updated model of desmosome molecular organization and speculate upon novel functions of this cell junction as a signaling center for sensing mechanical and other forms of cell stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navaneetha Krishnan Bharathan
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Alexa L Mattheyses
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Andrew P Kowalczyk
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
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2
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Perl AL, Pokorny JL, Green KJ. Desmosomes at a glance. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261899. [PMID: 38940346 PMCID: PMC11234380 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261899] [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] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Desmosomes are relatives of ancient cadherin-based junctions, which emerged late in evolution to ensure the structural integrity of vertebrate tissues by coupling the intermediate filament cytoskeleton to cell-cell junctions. Their ability to dynamically counter the contractile forces generated by actin-associated adherens junctions is particularly important in tissues under high mechanical stress, such as the skin and heart. Much more than the simple cellular 'spot welds' depicted in textbooks, desmosomes are in fact dynamic structures that can sense and respond to changes in their mechanical environment and external stressors like ultraviolet light and pathogens. These environmental signals are transmitted intracellularly via desmosome-dependent mechanochemical pathways that drive the physiological processes of morphogenesis and differentiation. This Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster review desmosome structure and assembly, highlight recent insights into how desmosomes integrate chemical and mechanical signaling in the epidermis, and discuss desmosomes as targets in human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey L. Perl
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jenny L. Pokorny
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Kathleen J. Green
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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3
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Ruiz WG, Clayton DR, Parakala-Jain T, Dalghi MG, Franks J, Apodaca G. The umbrella cell keratin network: organization as a tile-like mesh, formation of a girded layer in response to bladder filling, and dependence on the plectin cytolinker. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.11.598498. [PMID: 38915686 PMCID: PMC11195278 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.11.598498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
The keratin cytoskeleton and associated desmosomes contribute to the mechanical stability of epithelial tissues, but their organization in bladder umbrella cells and their responses to bladder filling are poorly understood. Using super-resolution confocal microscopy, along with 3D image reconstruction and platinum replica electron microscopy, we observed that the apical keratin network of umbrella cells was organized as a dense tile-like mesh comprised of tesserae bordered on their edges by cortical actin filaments, filled with woven keratin filaments, and crosslinked by plectin. A band of keratin was also observed at the cell periphery that was linked to the junction-associated actin ring by plectin. During bladder filling, the junction-localized desmosomal necklace expanded, and a subjacent girded layer was formed that linked the keratin network to desmosomes, including those at the umbrella cell-intermediate cell interface. Disruption of plectin led to focal keratin network dissolution, loss of the junction-associated band of keratin, perturbation of tight junction continuity, and loss of cell-cell cohesion. Our studies reveal a novel tile-like organization of the umbrella cell keratin cytoskeleton that is dependent on plectin, that reorganizes in response to bladder filling, and that likely serves to maintain umbrella cell continuity in the face of mechanical distension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wily G. Ruiz
- Department of Medicine Renal-Electrolyte Division and George M. O’Brien Pittsburgh Center for Kidney Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dennis R. Clayton
- Department of Medicine Renal-Electrolyte Division and George M. O’Brien Pittsburgh Center for Kidney Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Tanmay Parakala-Jain
- Department of Medicine Renal-Electrolyte Division and George M. O’Brien Pittsburgh Center for Kidney Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marianela G. Dalghi
- Department of Medicine Renal-Electrolyte Division and George M. O’Brien Pittsburgh Center for Kidney Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jonathan Franks
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gerard Apodaca
- Department of Medicine Renal-Electrolyte Division and George M. O’Brien Pittsburgh Center for Kidney Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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4
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Jin X, Rosenbohm J, Moghaddam AO, Kim E, Seiffert-Sinha K, Leiker M, Zhai H, Baddam SR, Minnick G, Huo Y, Safa BT, Wahl JK, Meng F, Huang C, Lim JY, Conway DE, Sinha AA, Yang R. Desmosomal Cadherin Tension Loss in Pemphigus Vulgaris Mediated by the Inhibition of Active RhoA at Cell-Cell Adhesions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592394. [PMID: 38766211 PMCID: PMC11100601 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Binding of autoantibodies to keratinocyte surface antigens, primarily desmoglein 3 (Dsg3) of the desmosomal complex, leads to the dissociation of cell-cell adhesion in the blistering disorder pemphigus vulgaris (PV). After the initial disassembly of desmosomes, cell-cell adhesions actively remodel in association with the cytoskeleton and focal adhesions. Growing evidence highlights the role of adhesion mechanics and mechanotransduction at cell-cell adhesions in this remodeling process, as their active participation may direct autoimmune pathogenicity. However, a large part of the biophysical transformations after antibody binding remains underexplored. Specifically, it is unclear how tension in desmosomes and cell-cell adhesions changes in response to antibodies, and how the altered tensional states translate to cellular responses. Here, we showed a tension loss at Dsg3 using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based tension sensors, a tension loss at the entire cell-cell adhesion, and a potentially compensatory increase in junctional traction force at cell-extracellular matrix adhesions after PV antibody binding. Further, our data indicate that this tension loss is mediated by the inhibition of RhoA at cell-cell contacts, and the extent of RhoA inhibition may be crucial in determining the severity of pathogenicity among different PV antibodies. More importantly, this tension loss can be partially restored by altering actomyosin based cell contractility. Collectively, these findings provide previously unattainable details in our understanding of the mechanisms that govern cell-cell interactions under physiological and autoimmune conditions, which may open the window to entirely new therapeutics aimed at restoring physiological balance to tension dynamics that regulates the maintenance of cell-cell adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Jin
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Jordan Rosenbohm
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Amir Ostadi Moghaddam
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Eunju Kim
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | | | - Merced Leiker
- Department of Dermatology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203
| | - Haiwei Zhai
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Sindora R. Baddam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23284
| | - Grayson Minnick
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Yucheng Huo
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| | - Bahareh Tajvidi Safa
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - James K. Wahl
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln, NE 68583
| | - Fanben Meng
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Changjin Huang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jung Yul Lim
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Daniel E. Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
- The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Animesh A. Sinha
- Department of Dermatology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203
| | - Ruiguo Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
- Nebraska Center for Integrated Biomolecular Communication, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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5
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Zimmer SE, Giang W, Levental I, Kowalczyk AP. The transmembrane domain of the desmosomal cadherin desmoglein-1 governs lipid raft association to promote desmosome adhesive strength. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.24.590936. [PMID: 38712246 PMCID: PMC11071526 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.24.590936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol- and sphingolipid-enriched domains called lipid rafts are hypothesized to selectively coordinate protein complex assembly within the plasma membrane to regulate cellular functions. Desmosomes are mechanically resilient adhesive junctions that associate with lipid raft membrane domains, yet the mechanisms directing raft association of the desmosomal proteins, particularly the transmembrane desmosomal cadherins, are poorly understood. We identified the desmoglein-1 (DSG1) transmembrane domain (TMD) as a key determinant of desmoglein lipid raft association and designed a panel of DSG1 TMD variants to assess the contribution of TMD physicochemical properties (length, bulkiness, and palmitoylation) to DSG1 lipid raft association. Sucrose gradient fractionations revealed that TMD length and bulkiness, but not palmitoylation, govern DSG1 lipid raft association. Further, DSG1 raft association determines plakoglobin recruitment to raft domains. Super-resolution imaging and functional assays uncovered a strong relationship between the efficiency of DSG1 TMD lipid raft association and the formation of morphologically and functionally robust desmosomes. Lipid raft association regulated both desmosome assembly dynamics and DSG1 cell surface stability, indicating that DSG1 lipid raft association is required for both desmosome formation and maintenance. These studies identify the biophysical properties of desmoglein transmembrane domains as key determinants of lipid raft association and desmosome adhesive function.
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6
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Danielsson BE, George Abraham B, Mäntylä E, Cabe JI, Mayer CR, Rekonen A, Ek F, Conway DE, Ihalainen TO. Nuclear lamina strain states revealed by intermolecular force biosensor. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3867. [PMID: 37391402 PMCID: PMC10313699 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39563-6] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear lamins have been considered an important structural element of the nucleus. The nuclear lamina is thought both to shield DNA from excessive mechanical forces and to transmit mechanical forces onto the DNA. However, to date there is not yet a technical approach to directly measure mechanical forces on nuclear lamins at the protein level. To overcome this limitation, we developed a nanobody-based intermolecular tension FRET biosensor capable of measuring the mechanical strain of lamin filaments. Using this sensor, we were able to show that the nuclear lamina is subjected to significant force. These forces are dependent on nuclear volume, actomyosin contractility, functional LINC complex, chromatin condensation state, cell cycle, and EMT. Interestingly, large forces were also present on nucleoplasmic lamins, indicating that these lamins may also have an important mechanical role in the nucleus. Overall, we demonstrate that the nanobody-based approach allows construction of biosensors for complex protein structures for mechanobiology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke E Danielsson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Bobin George Abraham
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Elina Mäntylä
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jolene I Cabe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Carl R Mayer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Anna Rekonen
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Frans Ek
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Daniel E Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
- The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
| | - Teemu O Ihalainen
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
- Tampere Institute for Advanced Study, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
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7
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Bharathan NK, Giang W, Hoffman CL, Aaron JS, Khuon S, Chew TL, Preibisch S, Trautman ET, Heinrich L, Bogovic J, Bennett D, Ackerman D, Park W, Petruncio A, Weigel AV, Saalfeld S, Wayne Vogl A, Stahley SN, Kowalczyk AP. Architecture and dynamics of a desmosome-endoplasmic reticulum complex. Nat Cell Biol 2023; 25:823-835. [PMID: 37291267 PMCID: PMC10960982 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-023-01154-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) forms a dynamic network that contacts other cellular membranes to regulate stress responses, calcium signalling and lipid transfer. Here, using high-resolution volume electron microscopy, we find that the ER forms a previously unknown association with keratin intermediate filaments and desmosomal cell-cell junctions. Peripheral ER assembles into mirror image-like arrangements at desmosomes and exhibits nanometre proximity to keratin filaments and the desmosome cytoplasmic plaque. ER tubules exhibit stable associations with desmosomes, and perturbation of desmosomes or keratin filaments alters ER organization, mobility and expression of ER stress transcripts. These findings indicate that desmosomes and the keratin cytoskeleton regulate the distribution, function and dynamics of the ER network. Overall, this study reveals a previously unknown subcellular architecture defined by the structural integration of ER tubules with an epithelial intercellular junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navaneetha Krishnan Bharathan
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - William Giang
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Coryn L Hoffman
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Jesse S Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Satya Khuon
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Stephan Preibisch
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Eric T Trautman
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Larissa Heinrich
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - John Bogovic
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Davis Bennett
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - David Ackerman
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Woohyun Park
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Alyson Petruncio
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Aubrey V Weigel
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Stephan Saalfeld
- Advanced Imaging Center, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - A Wayne Vogl
- Life Sciences Institute and the Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sara N Stahley
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Andrew P Kowalczyk
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
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Davis MJ, Earley S, Li YS, Chien S. Vascular mechanotransduction. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:1247-1421. [PMID: 36603156 PMCID: PMC9942936 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00053.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review aims to survey the current state of mechanotransduction in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs), including their sensing of mechanical stimuli and transduction of mechanical signals that result in the acute functional modulation and longer-term transcriptomic and epigenetic regulation of blood vessels. The mechanosensors discussed include ion channels, plasma membrane-associated structures and receptors, and junction proteins. The mechanosignaling pathways presented include the cytoskeleton, integrins, extracellular matrix, and intracellular signaling molecules. These are followed by discussions on mechanical regulation of transcriptome and epigenetics, relevance of mechanotransduction to health and disease, and interactions between VSMCs and ECs. Throughout this review, we offer suggestions for specific topics that require further understanding. In the closing section on conclusions and perspectives, we summarize what is known and point out the need to treat the vasculature as a system, including not only VSMCs and ECs but also the extracellular matrix and other types of cells such as resident macrophages and pericytes, so that we can fully understand the physiology and pathophysiology of the blood vessel as a whole, thus enhancing the comprehension, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Davis
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Scott Earley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada
| | - Yi-Shuan Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, California
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Shu Chien
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, California
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
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9
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Cardiac fibroblasts and mechanosensation in heart development, health and disease. Nat Rev Cardiol 2022; 20:309-324. [PMID: 36376437 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-022-00799-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The term 'mechanosensation' describes the capacity of cells to translate mechanical stimuli into the coordinated regulation of intracellular signals, cellular function, gene expression and epigenetic programming. This capacity is related not only to the sensitivity of the cells to tissue motion, but also to the decryption of tissue geometric arrangement and mechanical properties. The cardiac stroma, composed of fibroblasts, has been historically considered a mechanically passive component of the heart. However, the latest research suggests that the mechanical functions of these cells are an active and necessary component of the developmental biology programme of the heart that is involved in myocardial growth and homeostasis, and a crucial determinant of cardiac repair and disease. In this Review, we discuss the general concept of cell mechanosensation and force generation as potent regulators in heart development and pathology, and describe the integration of mechanical and biohumoral pathways predisposing the heart to fibrosis and failure. Next, we address the use of 3D culture systems to integrate tissue mechanics to mimic cardiac remodelling. Finally, we highlight the potential of mechanotherapeutic strategies, including pharmacological treatment and device-mediated left ventricular unloading, to reverse remodelling in the failing heart.
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10
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Moch M, Schieren J, Leube RE. Cortical tension regulates desmosomal morphogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:946190. [PMID: 36268507 PMCID: PMC9577410 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.946190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical stability is a fundamental and essential property of epithelial cell sheets. It is in large part determined by cell-cell adhesion sites that are tightly integrated by the cortical cytoskeleton. An intimate crosstalk between the adherens junction-associated contractile actomyosin system and the desmosome-anchored keratin intermediate filament system is decisive for dynamic regulation of epithelial mechanics. A major question in the field is whether and in which way mechanical stress affects junctional plasticity. This is especially true for the desmosome-keratin scaffold whose role in force-sensing is virtually unknown. To examine this question, we inactivated the actomyosin system in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and canine kidney cells (MDCK) and monitored changes in desmosomal protein turnover. Partial inhibition of myosin II by para-nitro-blebbistatin led to a decrease of the cells' elastic modulus and to reduced desmosomal protein turnover in regions where nascent desmosomes are formed and, to a lower degree, in regions where larger, more mature desmosomes are present. Interestingly, desmosomal proteins are affected differently: a significant decrease in turnover was observed for the desmosomal plaque protein desmoplakin I (DspI), which links keratin filaments to the desmosomal core, and the transmembrane cadherin desmoglein 2 (Dsg2). On the other hand, the turnover of another type of desmosomal cadherin, desmocollin 2 (Dsc2), was not significantly altered under the tested conditions. Similarly, the turnover of the adherens junction-associated E-cadherin was not affected by the low doses of para-nitro-blebbistatin. Inhibition of actin polymerization by low dose latrunculin B treatment and of ROCK-driven actomyosin contractility by Y-27632 treatment also induced a significant decrease in desmosomal DspI turnover. Taken together, we conclude that changes in the cortical force balance affect desmosome formation and growth. Furthermore, they differentially modulate desmosomal protein turnover resulting in changes of desmosome composition. We take the observations as evidence for a hitherto unknown desmosomal mechanosensing and mechanoresponse pathway responding to an altered force balance.
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11
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Zimmer SE, Takeichi T, Conway DE, Kubo A, Suga Y, Akiyama M, Kowalczyk AP. Differential Pathomechanisms of Desmoglein 1 Transmembrane Domain Mutations in Skin Disease. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:323-332.e8. [PMID: 34352264 PMCID: PMC9109890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.07.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Dominant and recessive mutations in the desmosomal cadherin, desmoglein (DSG) 1, cause the skin diseases palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) and severe dermatitis, multiple allergies, and metabolic wasting (SAM) syndrome, respectively. In this study, we compare two dominant missense mutations in the DSG1 transmembrane domain (TMD), G557R and G562R, causing PPK (DSG1PPK-TMD) and SAM syndrome (DSG1SAM-TMD), respectively, to determine the differing pathomechanisms of these mutants. Expressing the DSG1TMD mutants in a DSG-null background, we use cellular and biochemical assays to reveal the differences in the mechanistic behavior of each mutant. Super-resolution microscopy and functional assays showed a failure by both mutants to assemble desmosomes due to reduced membrane trafficking and lipid raft targeting. DSG1SAM-TMD maintained normal expression levels and turnover relative to wildtype DSG1, but DSG1PPK-TMD lacked stability, leading to increased turnover through lysosomal and proteasomal pathways and reduced expression levels. These results differentiate the underlying pathomechanisms of these disorders, suggesting that DSG1SAM-TMD acts dominant negatively, whereas DSG1PPK-TMD is a loss-of-function mutation causing the milder PPK disease phenotype. These mutants portray the importance of the DSG TMD in desmosome function and suggest that a greater understanding of the desmosomal cadherin TMDs will further our understanding of the role that desmosomes play in epidermal pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E Zimmer
- Department of Dermatology, Penn State College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Takuya Takeichi
- Department of Dermatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Daniel E Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Akiharu Kubo
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yasushi Suga
- Department of Dermatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, Japan
| | - Masashi Akiyama
- Department of Dermatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Andrew P Kowalczyk
- Department of Dermatology, Penn State College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Penn State College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA.
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12
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Hegazy M, Perl AL, Svoboda SA, Green KJ. Desmosomal Cadherins in Health and Disease. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 17:47-72. [PMID: 34425055 PMCID: PMC8792335 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-042320-092912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Desmosomal cadherins are a recent evolutionary innovation that make up the adhesive core of highly specialized intercellular junctions called desmosomes. Desmosomal cadherins, which are grouped into desmogleins and desmocollins, are related to the classical cadherins, but their cytoplasmic domains are tailored for anchoring intermediate filaments instead of actin to sites of cell-cell adhesion. The resulting junctions are critical for resisting mechanical stress in tissues such as the skin and heart. Desmosomal cadherins also act as signaling hubs that promote differentiation and facilitate morphogenesis, creating more complex and effective tissue barriers in vertebrate tissues. Interference with desmosomal cadherin adhesive and supra-adhesive functions leads to a variety of autoimmune, hereditary, toxin-mediated, and malignant diseases. We review our current understanding of how desmosomal cadherins contribute to human health and disease, highlight gaps in our knowledge about their regulation and function, and introduce promising new directions toward combatting desmosome-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marihan Hegazy
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Abbey L. Perl
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Sophia A. Svoboda
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Kathleen J. Green
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA,Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
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13
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Magin TM, Hatzfeld M. Messages from Mutant Desmosomes. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:272-274. [PMID: 34799122 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.08.389] [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: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Single gene disorders are ideally suited to establish robust genotype‒phenotype correlations and provide excellent opportunities to understand molecular pathomechanisms with relevance to complex disorders. The observation that patients diagnosed with the same causative mutation can present with phenotypic disease variability illustrates the significant role of disease modifiers and warns against oversimplification. In a new article in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Zimmer et al. (2021) analyze two mutations located in the desmoglein (DSG) 1 transmembrane domain (TMD) and find that both mutants fail to assemble into desmosomes owing to reduced membrane trafficking and lipid raft targeting. One mutation maintained normal protein expression levels and turnover relative to those of wild-type (WT) DSG1, and behaved as a dominant negative. The second mutant showed reduced stability and increased turnover compared with WT DSG1 as well as reduced desmosome size and abundance. A full understanding of the TMD of DSG1 requires cell biological approaches, underscoring the value of cell biology in biomedical research in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Magin
- Division of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Mechthild Hatzfeld
- Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), Pathobiochemistry, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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14
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Moazzen H, Venger K, Kant S, Leube RE, Krusche CA. Desmoglein 2 regulates cardiogenesis by restricting hematopoiesis in the developing murine heart. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21687. [PMID: 34737300 PMCID: PMC8569146 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00996-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac morphogenesis relies on intricate intercellular signaling. Altered signaling impacts cardiac function and is detrimental to embryonic survival. Here we report an unexpected regulatory role of the desmosomal cell adhesion molecule desmoglein 2 (Dsg2) on murine heart development. A large percentage of Dsg2-mutant embryos develop pericardial hemorrhage. Lethal myocardial rupture is occasionally observed, which is not associated with loss of cardiomyocyte contact but with expansion of abnormal, non-myocyte cell clusters within the myocardial wall. Two types of abnormal cell clusters can be distinguished: Type A clusters involve endocard-associated, round-shaped CD31+ cells, which proliferate and invade the myocardium. They acquire Runx1- and CD44-positivity indicating a shift towards a hematopoietic phenotype. Type B clusters expand subepicardially and next to type A clusters. They consist primarily of Ter119+ erythroid cells with interspersed Runx1+/CD44+ cells suggesting that they originate from type A cell clusters. The observed pericardial hemorrhage is caused by migration of erythrocytes from type B clusters through the epicardium and rupture of the altered cardiac wall. Finally, evidence is presented that structural defects of Dsg2-depleted cardiomyocytes are primary to the observed pathogenesis. We propose that cardiomyocyte-driven paracrine signaling, which likely involves Notch1, directs subsequent trans-differentiation of endo- and epicardial cells. Together, our observations uncover a hitherto unknown regulatory role of Dsg2 in cardiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda Moazzen
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Kateryna Venger
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kant
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf E Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Claudia A Krusche
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
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15
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Uray IP, Uray K. Mechanotransduction at the Plasma Membrane-Cytoskeleton Interface. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11566. [PMID: 34768998 PMCID: PMC8584042 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanical cues are crucial for survival, adaptation, and normal homeostasis in virtually every cell type. The transduction of mechanical messages into intracellular biochemical messages is termed mechanotransduction. While significant advances in biochemical signaling have been made in the last few decades, the role of mechanotransduction in physiological and pathological processes has been largely overlooked until recently. In this review, the role of interactions between the cytoskeleton and cell-cell/cell-matrix adhesions in transducing mechanical signals is discussed. In addition, mechanosensors that reside in the cell membrane and the transduction of mechanical signals to the nucleus are discussed. Finally, we describe two examples in which mechanotransduction plays a significant role in normal physiology and disease development. The first example is the role of mechanotransduction in the proliferation and metastasis of cancerous cells. In this system, the role of mechanotransduction in cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and motility, is described. In the second example, the role of mechanotransduction in a mechanically active organ, the gastrointestinal tract, is described. In the gut, mechanotransduction contributes to normal physiology and the development of motility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván P. Uray
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Karen Uray
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
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16
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Inman A, Smutny M. Feeling the force: Multiscale force sensing and transduction at the cell-cell interface. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 120:53-65. [PMID: 34238674 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A universal principle of all living cells is the ability to sense and respond to mechanical stimuli which is essential for many biological processes. Recent efforts have identified critical mechanosensitive molecules and response pathways involved in mechanotransduction during development and tissue homeostasis. Tissue-wide force transmission and local force sensing need to be spatiotemporally coordinated to precisely regulate essential processes during development such as tissue morphogenesis, patterning, cell migration and organogenesis. Understanding how cells identify and interpret extrinsic forces and integrate a specific response on cell and tissue level remains a major challenge. In this review we consider important cellular and physical factors in control of cell-cell mechanotransduction and discuss their significance for cell and developmental processes. We further highlight mechanosensitive macromolecules that are known to respond to external forces and present examples of how force responses can be integrated into cell and developmental programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angus Inman
- Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology and Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV47AL, UK
| | - Michael Smutny
- Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology and Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV47AL, UK.
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17
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Desmoglein-2 harnesses a PDZ-GEF2/Rap1 signaling axis to control cell spreading and focal adhesions independent of cell-cell adhesion. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13295. [PMID: 34168237 PMCID: PMC8225821 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92675-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Desmosomes have a central role in mediating extracellular adhesion between cells, but they also coordinate other biological processes such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and migration. In particular, several lines of evidence have implicated desmosomal proteins in regulating the actin cytoskeleton and attachment to the extracellular matrix, indicating signaling crosstalk between cell–cell junctions and cell–matrix adhesions. In our study, we found that cells lacking the desmosomal cadherin Desmoglein-2 (Dsg2) displayed a significant increase in spreading area on both fibronectin and collagen, compared to control A431 cells. Intriguingly, this effect was observed in single spreading cells, indicating that Dsg2 can exert its effects on cell spreading independent of cell–cell adhesion. We hypothesized that Dsg2 may mediate cell–matrix adhesion via control of Rap1 GTPase, which is well known as a central regulator of cell spreading dynamics. We show that Rap1 activity is elevated in Dsg2 knockout cells, and that Dsg2 harnesses Rap1 and downstream TGFβ signaling to influence both cell spreading and focal adhesion protein phosphorylation. Further analysis implicated the Rap GEF PDZ-GEF2 in mediating Dsg2-dependent cell spreading. These data have identified a novel role for Dsg2 in controlling cell spreading, providing insight into the mechanisms via which cadherins exert non-canonical junction-independent effects.
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18
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Raya-Sandino A, Luissint AC, Kusters DHM, Narayanan V, Flemming S, Garcia-Hernandez V, Godsel LM, Green KJ, Hagen SJ, Conway DE, Parkos CA, Nusrat A. Regulation of intestinal epithelial intercellular adhesion and barrier function by desmosomal cadherin desmocollin-2. Mol Biol Cell 2021; 32:753-768. [PMID: 33596089 PMCID: PMC8108520 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e20-12-0775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of desmosomal cadherin desmocollin-2 (Dsc2) in regulating barrier function in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) is not well understood. Here, we report the consequences of silencing Dsc2 on IEC barrier function in vivo using mice with inducible intestinal-epithelial-specific Dsc2 knockdown (KD) (Dsc2ERΔIEC). While the small intestinal gross architecture was maintained, loss of epithelial Dsc2 influenced desmosomal plaque structure, which was smaller in size and had increased intermembrane space between adjacent epithelial cells. Functional analysis revealed that loss of Dsc2 increased intestinal permeability in vivo, supporting a role for Dsc2 in the regulation of intestinal epithelial barrier function. These results were corroborated in model human IECs in which Dsc2 KD resulted in decreased cell-cell adhesion and impaired barrier function. It is noteworthy that Dsc2 KD cells exhibited delayed recruitment of desmoglein-2 (Dsg2) to the plasma membrane after calcium switch-induced intercellular junction reassembly, while E-cadherin accumulation was unaffected. Mechanistically, loss of Dsc2 increased desmoplakin (DP I/II) protein expression and promoted intermediate filament interaction with DP I/II and was associated with enhanced tension on desmosomes as measured by a Dsg2-tension sensor. In conclusion, we provide new insights on Dsc2 regulation of mechanical tension, adhesion, and barrier function in IECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Raya-Sandino
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Anny-Claude Luissint
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Dennis H. M. Kusters
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Vani Narayanan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284
| | - Sven Flemming
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | | | - Lisa M. Godsel
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Kathleen J. Green
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Susan J. Hagen
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Daniel E. Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284
| | - Charles A. Parkos
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Asma Nusrat
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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19
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Lavrenyuk K, Conway D, Dahl KN. Imaging methods in mechanosensing: a historical perspective and visions for the future. Mol Biol Cell 2021; 32:842-854. [PMID: 33788578 PMCID: PMC8108522 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e20-10-0671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past three decades, as mechanobiology has become a distinct area of study, researchers have developed novel imaging tools to discover the pathways of biomechanical signaling. Early work with substrate engineering and particle tracking demonstrated the importance of cell–extracellular matrix interactions on the cell cycle as well as the mechanical flux of the intracellular environment. Most recently, tension sensor approaches allowed directly measuring tension in cell–cell and cell–substrate interactions. We retrospectively analyze how these various optical techniques progressed the field and suggest our vision forward for a unified theory of cell mechanics, mapping cellular mechanosensing, and novel biomedical applications for mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirill Lavrenyuk
- Carnegie Mellon University, College of Engineering, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - Daniel Conway
- Virginia Commonwealth University, College of Engineering, Richmond, VA 23284
| | - Kris Noel Dahl
- Carnegie Mellon University, College of Engineering, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
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20
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Zuidema A, Wang W, Sonnenberg A. Crosstalk between Cell Adhesion Complexes in Regulation of Mechanotransduction. Bioessays 2020; 42:e2000119. [PMID: 32830356 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202000119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Physical forces regulate numerous biological processes during development, physiology, and pathology. Forces between the external environment and intracellular actin cytoskeleton are primarily transmitted through integrin-containing focal adhesions and cadherin-containing adherens junctions. Crosstalk between these complexes is well established and modulates the mechanical landscape of the cell. However, integrins and cadherins constitute large families of adhesion receptors and form multiple complexes by interacting with different ligands, adaptor proteins, and cytoskeletal filaments. Recent findings indicate that integrin-containing hemidesmosomes oppose force transduction and traction force generation by focal adhesions. The cytolinker plectin mediates this crosstalk by coupling intermediate filaments to the actin cytoskeleton. Similarly, cadherins in desmosomes might modulate force generation by adherens junctions. Moreover, mechanotransduction can be influenced by podosomes, clathrin lattices, and tetraspanin-enriched microdomains. This review discusses mechanotransduction by multiple integrin- and cadherin-based cell adhesion complexes, which together with the associated cytoskeleton form an integrated network that allows cells to sense, process, and respond to their physical environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Zuidema
- Division of Cell Biology I, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Wei Wang
- Division of Cell Biology I, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Arnoud Sonnenberg
- Division of Cell Biology I, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066 CX, The Netherlands
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21
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The intercalated disc: a mechanosensing signalling node in cardiomyopathy. Biophys Rev 2020; 12:931-946. [PMID: 32661904 PMCID: PMC7429531 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-020-00737-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyocytes, the cells generating contractile force in the heart, are connected to each other through a highly specialised structure, the intercalated disc (ID), which ensures force transmission and transduction between neighbouring cells and allows the myocardium to function in synchrony. In addition, cardiomyocytes possess an intrinsic ability to sense mechanical changes and to regulate their own contractile output accordingly. To achieve this, some of the components responsible for force transmission have evolved to sense changes in tension and to trigger a biochemical response that results in molecular and cellular changes in cardiomyocytes. This becomes of particular importance in cardiomyopathies, where the heart is exposed to increased mechanical load and needs to adapt to sustain its contractile function. In this review, we will discuss key mechanosensing elements present at the intercalated disc and provide an overview of the signalling molecules involved in mediating the responses to changes in mechanical force.
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22
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Angulo-Urarte A, van der Wal T, Huveneers S. Cell-cell junctions as sensors and transducers of mechanical forces. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1862:183316. [PMID: 32360073 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial and endothelial monolayers are multicellular sheets that form barriers between the 'outside' and 'inside' of tissues. Cell-cell junctions, made by adherens junctions, tight junctions and desmosomes, hold together these monolayers. They form intercellular contacts by binding their receptor counterparts on neighboring cells and anchoring these structures intracellularly to the cytoskeleton. During tissue development, maintenance and pathogenesis, monolayers encounter a range of mechanical forces from the cells themselves and from external systemic forces, such as blood pressure or tissue stiffness. The molecular landscape of cell-cell junctions is diverse, containing transmembrane proteins that form intercellular bonds and a variety of cytoplasmic proteins that remodel the junctional connection to the cytoskeleton. Many junction-associated proteins participate in mechanotransduction cascades to confer mechanical cues into cellular responses that allow monolayers to maintain their structural integrity. We will discuss force-dependent junctional molecular events and their role in cell-cell contact organization and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Angulo-Urarte
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Location AMC, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tanne van der Wal
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Location AMC, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stephan Huveneers
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Location AMC, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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23
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Broussard JA, Jaiganesh A, Zarkoob H, Conway DE, Dunn AR, Espinosa HD, Janmey PA, Green KJ. Scaling up single-cell mechanics to multicellular tissues - the role of the intermediate filament-desmosome network. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:jcs228031. [PMID: 32179593 PMCID: PMC7097224 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.228031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells and tissues sense, respond to and translate mechanical forces into biochemical signals through mechanotransduction, which governs individual cell responses that drive gene expression, metabolic pathways and cell motility, and determines how cells work together in tissues. Mechanotransduction often depends on cytoskeletal networks and their attachment sites that physically couple cells to each other and to the extracellular matrix. One way that cells associate with each other is through Ca2+-dependent adhesion molecules called cadherins, which mediate cell-cell interactions through adherens junctions, thereby anchoring and organizing the cortical actin cytoskeleton. This actin-based network confers dynamic properties to cell sheets and developing organisms. However, these contractile networks do not work alone but in concert with other cytoarchitectural elements, including a diverse network of intermediate filaments. This Review takes a close look at the intermediate filament network and its associated intercellular junctions, desmosomes. We provide evidence that this system not only ensures tissue integrity, but also cooperates with other networks to create more complex tissues with emerging properties in sensing and responding to increasingly stressful environments. We will also draw attention to how defects in intermediate filament and desmosome networks result in both chronic and acquired diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A Broussard
- Departments of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Avinash Jaiganesh
- Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hoda Zarkoob
- Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Daniel E Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Alexander R Dunn
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Horacio D Espinosa
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Paul A Janmey
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kathleen J Green
- Departments of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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24
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Narayanan V, Schappell LE, Mayer CR, Duke AA, Armiger TJ, Arsenovic PT, Mohan A, Dahl KN, Gleghorn JP, Conway DE. Osmotic Gradients in Epithelial Acini Increase Mechanical Tension across E-cadherin, Drive Morphogenesis, and Maintain Homeostasis. Curr Biol 2020; 30:624-633.e4. [PMID: 31983640 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial cells spontaneously form acini (also known as cysts or spheroids) with a single, fluid-filled central lumen when grown in 3D matrices. The size of the lumen is dependent on apical secretion of chloride ions, most notably by the CFTR channel, which has been suggested to establish pressure in the lumen due to water influx. To study the cellular biomechanics of acini morphogenesis and homeostasis, we used MDCK-2 cells. Using FRET-force biosensors for E-cadherin, we observed significant increases in the average tension per molecule for each protein in mature 3D acini as compared to 2D monolayers. Increases in CFTR activity resulted in increased E-cadherin forces, indicating that ionic gradients affect cellular tension. Direct measurements of pressure revealed that mature acini experience significant internal hydrostatic pressure (37 ± 10.9 Pa). Changes in CFTR activity resulted in pressure and/or volume changes, both of which affect E-cadherin tension. Increases in CFTR chloride secretion also induced YAP signaling and cellular proliferation. In order to recapitulate disruption of acinar homeostasis, we induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). During the initial stages of EMT, there was a gradual decrease in E-cadherin force and lumen pressure that correlated with lumen infilling. Strikingly, increasing CFTR activity was sufficient to block EMT. Our results show that ion secretion is an important regulator of morphogenesis and homeostasis in epithelial acini. Furthermore, this work demonstrates that, for closed 3D cellular systems, ion gradients can generate osmotic pressure or volume changes, both of which result in increased cellular tension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vani Narayanan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Laurel E Schappell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Carl R Mayer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Ashley A Duke
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Travis J Armiger
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Paul T Arsenovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Abhinav Mohan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Kris N Dahl
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jason P Gleghorn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Daniel E Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA.
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25
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Green KJ, Jaiganesh A, Broussard JA. Desmosomes: Essential contributors to an integrated intercellular junction network. F1000Res 2019; 8. [PMID: 31942240 PMCID: PMC6944264 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.20942.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of adhesive connections between cells was critical for the evolution of multicellularity and for organizing cells into complex organs with discrete compartments. Four types of intercellular junction are present in vertebrates: desmosomes, adherens junctions, tight junctions, and gap junctions. All are essential for the development of the embryonic layers and organs as well as adult tissue homeostasis. While each junction type is defined as a distinct entity, it is now clear that they cooperate physically and functionally to create a robust and functionally diverse system. During evolution, desmosomes first appeared in vertebrates as highly specialized regions at the plasma membrane that couple the intermediate filament cytoskeleton at points of strong cell–cell adhesion. Here, we review how desmosomes conferred new mechanical and signaling properties to vertebrate cells and tissues through their interactions with the existing junctional and cytoskeletal network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen J Green
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Avinash Jaiganesh
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joshua A Broussard
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Uttagomol J, Ahmad US, Rehman A, Huang Y, Laly AC, Kang A, Soetaert J, Chance R, Teh MT, Connelly JT, Wan H. Evidence for the Desmosomal Cadherin Desmoglein-3 in Regulating YAP and Phospho-YAP in Keratinocyte Responses to Mechanical Forces. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246221. [PMID: 31835537 PMCID: PMC6940936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Desmoglein 3 (Dsg3) plays a crucial role in cell-cell adhesion and tissue integrity. Increasing evidence suggests that Dsg3 acts as a regulator of cellular mechanotransduction, but little is known about its direct role in mechanical force transmission. The present study investigated the impact of cyclic strain and substrate stiffness on Dsg3 expression and its role in mechanotransduction in keratinocytes. A direct comparison was made with E-cadherin, a well-characterized mechanosensor. Exposure of oral and skin keratinocytes to equiaxial cyclic strain promoted changes in the expression and localization of junction assembly proteins. The knockdown of Dsg3 by siRNA blocked strain-induced junctional remodeling of E-cadherin and Myosin IIa. Importantly, the study demonstrated that Dsg3 regulates the expression and localization of yes-associated protein (YAP), a mechanosensory, and an effector of the Hippo pathway. Furthermore, we showed that Dsg3 formed a complex with phospho-YAP and sequestered it to the plasma membrane, while Dsg3 depletion had an impact on both YAP and phospho-YAP in their response to mechanical forces, increasing the sensitivity of keratinocytes to the strain or substrate rigidity-induced nuclear relocation of YAP and phospho-YAP. Plakophilin 1 (PKP1) seemed to be crucial in recruiting the complex containing Dsg3/phospho-YAP to the cell surface since its silencing affected Dsg3 junctional assembly with concomitant loss of phospho-YAP at the cell periphery. Finally, we demonstrated that this Dsg3/YAP pathway has an influence on the expression of YAP1 target genes and cell proliferation. Together, these findings provide evidence of a novel role for Dsg3 in keratinocyte mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jutamas Uttagomol
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Usama Sharif Ahmad
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Ambreen Rehman
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Yunying Huang
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Ana C. Laly
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute; Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (A.C.L.); (J.S.); (J.T.C.)
| | - Angray Kang
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Jan Soetaert
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute; Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (A.C.L.); (J.S.); (J.T.C.)
| | - Randy Chance
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - Muy-Teck Teh
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
| | - John T. Connelly
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute; Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (A.C.L.); (J.S.); (J.T.C.)
| | - Hong Wan
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; (J.U.); (U.S.A.); (A.R.); (Y.H.); (A.K.); (R.C.); (M.-T.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +(44)-020-7882-7139; Fax: +(44)-020-7882-7137
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Ham TR, Collins KL, Hoffman BD. Molecular Tension Sensors: Moving Beyond Force. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2019; 12:83-94. [PMID: 32864525 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nearly all cellular processes are sensitive to mechanical inputs, and this plays a major role in diverse physiological processes. Mechanical stimuli are thought to be primarily detected through force-induced changes in protein structure. Approximately a decade ago, molecular tension sensors were created to measure forces across proteins within cells. Since then, an impressive assortment of sensors has been created and provided key insights into mechanotransduction, but comparisons of measurements between various sensors are challenging. In this review, we discuss the different types of molecular tension sensors, provide a system of classification based on their molecular-scale mechanical properties, and highlight how new applications of these sensors are enabling measurements beyond the magnitude of tensile load. We suggest that an expanded understanding of the functionality of these sensors, as well as integration with other techniques, will lead to consensus amongst measurements as well as critical insights into the underlying mechanisms of mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor R Ham
- Duke University, Room 1379 CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, 27710, United States
| | - Kasie L Collins
- Duke University, Room 1379 CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, 27710, United States
| | - Brenton D Hoffman
- Duke University, Room 1379 CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, 27710, United States
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Mayer CR, Arsenovic PT, Bathula K, Denis KB, Conway DE. Characterization of 3D Printed Stretching Devices for Imaging Force Transmission in Live-Cells. Cell Mol Bioeng 2019; 12:289-300. [PMID: 31719915 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-019-00579-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cell stretch is a method which can rapidly apply mechanical force through cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesions and can be utilized to better understand underlying biophysical questions related to intracellular force transmission and mechanotransduction. Methods 3D printable stretching devices suitable for live-cell fluorescent imaging were designed using finite element modeling and validated experimentally. These devices were then used along with FRET based nesprin-2G force sensitive biosensors as well as live cell fluorescent staining to understand how the nucleus responds to externally applied mechanical force in cells with both intact LINC (linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton) complex and cells with the LINC complex disrupted using expression of dominant negative KASH protein. Results The devices were shown to provide a larger strain ranges (300% uniaxial and 60% biaxial) than currently available commercial or academic designs we are aware of. Under uniaxial deformation, the deformation of the nucleus of NIH 3T3 cells per unit of imposed cell strain was shown to be approximately 50% higher in control cells compared to cells with a disrupted LINC complex. Under biaxial deformation, MDCK II cells showed permanent changes in the nuclear morphology as well as actin organization upon unloading, indicating that failure, plastic deformation, or remodeling of the cytoskeleton is occurring in response to the applied stretch. Conclusion Development and open distribution of low-cost, 3D-printable uniaxial and biaxial cell stretching devices compatible with live-cell fluorescent imaging allows a wider range of researchers to investigate mechanical influences on biological questions with only a minimal investment of resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl R Mayer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284 USA
| | - Paul T Arsenovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284 USA
| | - Kranthidhar Bathula
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284 USA
| | - Kevin B Denis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284 USA
| | - Daniel E Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284 USA
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Kant S, Freytag B, Herzog A, Reich A, Merkel R, Hoffmann B, Krusche CA, Leube RE. Desmoglein 2 mutation provokes skeletal muscle actin expression and accumulation at intercalated discs in murine hearts. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.199612. [PMID: 30659114 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.199612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (AC) is an incurable progressive disease that is linked to mutations in genes coding for components of desmosomal adhesions that are localized to the intercalated disc region, which electromechanically couples adjacent cardiomyocytes. To date, the underlying molecular dysfunctions are not well characterized. In two murine AC models, we find an upregulation of the skeletal muscle actin gene (Acta1), which is known to be a compensatory reaction to compromised heart function. Expression of this gene is elevated prior to visible morphological alterations and clinical symptoms, and persists throughout pathogenesis with an additional major rise during the chronic disease stage. We provide evidence that the increased Acta1 transcription is initiated through nuclear activation of the serum response transcription factor (SRF) by its transcriptional co-activator megakaryoblastic leukemia 1 protein (MKL1, also known as MRTFA). Our data further suggest that perturbed desmosomal adhesion causes Acta1 overexpression during the early stages of the disease, which is amplified by transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) release from fibrotic lesions and surrounding cardiomyocytes during later disease stages. These observations highlight a hitherto unknown molecular AC pathomechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Kant
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Freytag
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Antonia Herzog
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Anna Reich
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf Merkel
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Complex Systems, ICS-7, Biomechanics, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Bernd Hoffmann
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Complex Systems, ICS-7, Biomechanics, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Claudia A Krusche
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf E Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Mechanical loading of desmosomes depends on the magnitude and orientation of external stress. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5284. [PMID: 30538252 PMCID: PMC6290003 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07523-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Desmosomes are intercellular adhesion complexes that connect the intermediate filament cytoskeletons of neighboring cells, and are essential for the mechanical integrity of mammalian tissues. Mutations in desmosomal proteins cause severe human pathologies including epithelial blistering and heart muscle dysfunction. However, direct evidence for their load-bearing nature is lacking. Here we develop Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based tension sensors to measure the forces experienced by desmoplakin, an obligate desmosomal protein that links the desmosomal plaque to intermediate filaments. Our experiments reveal that desmoplakin does not experience significant tension under most conditions, but instead becomes mechanically loaded when cells are exposed to external mechanical stresses. Stress-induced loading of desmoplakin is transient and sensitive to the magnitude and orientation of the applied tissue deformation, consistent with a stress absorbing function for desmosomes that is distinct from previously analyzed cell adhesion complexes. Desmosomes are intercellular adhesion complexes that connect the intermediate filament cytoskeletons of neighboring cells but direct evidence for their load-bearing nature is lacking. Here the authors develop FRET-based tension sensors to measure the forces experienced by desmoplakin and infer that desmosomes become mechanically loaded when cells are exposed to external mechanical stresses.
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