Mechanical force regulates tendon extracellular matrix organization and tenocyte morphogenesis through TGFbeta signaling.

ABSTRACT: Mechanical forces between cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) influence cell shape and function. Tendons are ECM-rich tissues connecting muscles with bones that bear extreme tensional force. Analysis of transgenic zebrafish expressing mCherry driven by the tendon determinant scleraxis reveals that tendon fibroblasts (tenocytes) extend arrays of microtubule-rich projections at the onset of muscle contraction. In the trunk, these form a dense curtain along the myotendinous junctions at somite boundaries, perpendicular to myofibers, suggesting a role as force sensors to control ECM production and tendon strength. Paralysis or destabilization of microtubules reduces projection length and surrounding ECM, both of which are rescued by muscle stimulation. Paralysis also reduces SMAD3 phos

SUBMITTER: Subramanian A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6345564 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature