Tunable molecular tension sensors reveal extension-based control of vinculin loading.

ABSTRACT: Molecular tension sensors have contributed to a growing understanding of mechanobiology. However, the limited dynamic range and inability to specify the mechanical sensitivity of these sensors has hindered their widespread use in diverse contexts. Here, we systematically examine the components of tension sensors that can be altered to improve their functionality. Guided by the development of a first principles model describing the mechanical behavior of these sensors, we create a collection of sensors that exhibit predictable sensitivities and significantly improved performance in cellulo. Utilized in the context of vinculin mechanobiology, a trio of these new biosensors with distinct force- and extension-sensitivities reveal that an extension-based control paradigm regulates vincul

SUBMITTER: LaCroix AS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6053308 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature