A focal adhesion protein-based mechanochemical checkpoint regulates cleft progression during branching morphogenesis.

ABSTRACT: Cleft formation is the initial step of branching morphogenesis in many organs. We previously demonstrated that ROCK 1 regulates a nonmuscle myosin II-dependent mechanochemical checkpoint to transition initiated clefts to progressing clefts in developing submandibular salivary glands. Here, we report that ROCK-mediated integrin activation and subsequent formation of focal adhesion complexes comprise this mechanochemical checkpoint. Inhibition of ROCK1 and nonmuscle myosin II activity decreased integrin β1 activation in the cleft region and interfered with localization and activation of focal adhesion complex proteins, such as focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Inhibition of FAK activity also prevented cleft progression, by disrupting recruitment of the focal adhesion proteins talin and vinculin a

SUBMITTER: Daley WP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3647453 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature