α2β1 integrins spatially restrict Cdc42 activity to stabilise adherens junctions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Keratinocytes form the main protective barrier in the skin to separate the underlying tissue from the external environment. In order to maintain this barrier, keratinocytes form robust junctions between neighbouring cells as well as with the underlying extracellular matrix. Cell-cell adhesions are mediated primarily through cadherin receptors, whereas the integrin family of transmembrane receptors is predominantly associated with assembly of matrix adhesions. Integrins have been shown to also localise to cell-cell adhesions, but their role at these sites remains unclear.

Results

Here we show that α2β1 integrins are enriched at mature keratinocyte cell-cell adhesions, where they play a crucial role in organising cytoskeletal networks to stabilize adherens junctions

SUBMITTER: Howden JD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8220754 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature