Matrix rigidity regulates cancer cell growth by modulating cellular metabolism and protein synthesis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Tumor cells in vivo encounter diverse types of microenvironments both at the site of the primary tumor and at sites of distant metastases. Understanding how the various mechanical properties of these microenvironments affect the biology of tumor cells during disease progression is critical in identifying molecular targets for cancer therapy.

Methodology/principal findings

This study uses flexible polyacrylamide gels as substrates for cell growth in conjunction with a novel proteomic approach to identify the properties of rigidity-dependent cancer cell lines that contribute to their differential growth on soft and rigid substrates. Compared to cells growing on more rigid/stiff substrates (>10,000 Pa), cells on soft substrates (150-300 Pa) exhibited a longer cell cy

SUBMITTER: Tilghman RW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3356407 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature