Cell surface engineering for inhibition of breast cancer cell motility through modulation of mechanotransduction and focal adhesion dynamics.

ABSTRACT: Metastasis is a leading cause of mortality in breast cancer and is critically influenced by cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, mechanical forces, and cellular motility. In this study, we present a cell surface engineering approach using tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP), a biocompatible thiol-modifying agent, to modulate the biomechanical behavior of breast cancer cells. TCEP treatment increased surface thiol availability, enhanced phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), and promoted the elongation of pFAK-positive focal adhesions, along with cytoskeletal remodeling and stronger cell-ECM adhesion. These molecular and structural changes corresponded with significantly reduced migration and invasion of MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Using traction force microscopy (TFM), we

SUBMITTER: Kim J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12681588 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature