Mechanosensitive stem cell fate choice is instructed by dynamic fluctuations in activation of Rho GTPases.

ABSTRACT: During the intricate process by which cells give rise to tissues, embryonic and adult stem cells are exposed to diverse mechanical signals from the extracellular matrix (ECM) that influence their fate. Cells can sense these cues in part through dynamic generation of protrusions, modulated and controlled by cyclic activation of Rho GTPases. However, it remains unclear how extracellular mechanical signals regulate Rho GTPase activation dynamics and how such rapid, transient activation dynamics are integrated to yield long-term, irreversible cell fate decisions. Here, we report that ECM stiffness cues alter not only the magnitude but also the temporal frequency of RhoA and Cdc42 activation in adult neural stem cells (NSCs). Using optogenetics to control the frequency of RhoA and Cdc42 activat

SUBMITTER: Sampayo RG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10235963 | biostudies-literature | 2023 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature