Defining the role of syndecan-4 in mechanotransduction using surface-modification approaches.

ABSTRACT: The ability of cells to respond to external mechanical stimulation is a complex and robust process involving a diversity of molecular interactions. Although mechanotransduction has been heavily studied, many questions remain regarding the link between physical stimulation and biochemical response. Of significant interest has been the contribution of the transmembrane proteins involved, and integrins in particular, because of their connectivity to both the extracellular matrix and the cytoskeleton. Here, we demonstrate the existence of a mechanically based initiation molecule, syndecan-4. We first demonstrate the ability of syndecan-4 molecules to support cell attachment and spreading without the direct extracellular binding of integrins. We also examine the distribution of focal adhesion-a

SUBMITTER: Bellin RM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2796905 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature