The fibroblast integrin alpha11beta1 is induced in a mechanosensitive manner involving activin A and regulates myofibroblast differentiation.

ABSTRACT: Fibrotic tissue is characterized by an overabundance of myofibroblasts. Thus, understanding the factors that induce myofibroblast differentiation is paramount to preventing fibrotic healing. Previous studies have shown that mechanical stress derived from the integrin-mediated interaction between extracellular matrix and the cytoskeleton promotes myofibroblast differentiation. Integrin alpha11beta1 is a collagen receptor on fibroblasts. To determine whether alpha11beta1 can act as a mechanosensor to promote the myofibroblast phenotype, mouse embryonic fibroblasts and human corneal fibroblasts were utilized. We found that alpha11 mRNA and protein levels were up-regulated in mouse embryonic fibroblasts grown in attached three-dimensional collagen gels and conversely down-regulated in cells gr

SUBMITTER: Carracedo S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2856250 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature