Tension-sensitive actin assembly supports contractility at the epithelial zonula adherens.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Actomyosin-based contractility acts on cadherin junctions to support tissue integrity and morphogenesis. The actomyosin apparatus of the epithelial zonula adherens (ZA) is built by coordinating junctional actin assembly with Myosin II activation. However, the physical interaction between Myosin and actin filaments that is necessary for contractility can induce actin filament turnover, potentially compromising the contractile apparatus itself.

Results

We now identify tension-sensitive actin assembly as one cellular solution to this design paradox. We show that junctional actin assembly is maintained by contractility in established junctions and increases when contractility is stimulated. The underlying mechanism entails the tension-sensitive recruitment of vinculin

SUBMITTER: Leerberg JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5103636 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature