Activation of the RhoA-YAP-β-catenin signaling axis promotes the expansion of inner ear progenitor cells in 3D culture.

ABSTRACT: Cellular mechanotransduction plays an essential role in the development and differentiation of many cell types, but if and how mechanical cues from the extracellular matrix (ECM) influence the fate determination of inner ear progenitor cells (IEPCs) remains largely unknown. In the current study, we compared the biological behavior of IEPCs in Matrigel-based suspension and encapsulated culture systems, and we found that the mechanical cues from the ECM promote the survival and expansion of IEPCs. Furthermore, we found that the mechanical cues from the ECM induced the accumulation of Ras homolog family member A (RhoA) and caused the polymerization of actin cytoskeleton in IEPCs. These changes in turn resulted in increased Yes-associated protein (YAP) nuclear localization and enhanced expansi

SUBMITTER: Xia M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7383802 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature