Defining Single Molecular Forces Required to Activate Integrin and Notch Signaling
Year: 2013
Type: article
Abstract: Cell-cell and cell-matrix mechanical interactions through membrane receptors direct a wide range of cellular functions and orchestrate the development of multicellular organisms. To define the single molecular forces required to activate signaling through a ligand-receptor bond, we developed the tension gauge tether (TGT) approach in which the ligand is immobilized to a surface through a rupturable tether before receptor engagement. TGT serves as an autonomous gauge to restrict the receptor-ligand tension. Using a range of tethers with tunable tension tolerances, we show that cells apply a universal peak tension of about 40 piconewtons (pN) to single integrin-ligand bonds during initial adhesion. We find that less than 12 pN is required to activate Notch receptors. TGT can also provide a defined molecular mechanical cue to regulate cellular functions.
Source: Science
Authors: Xuefeng Wang, Taekjip Ha
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Howard Hughes Medical Institute
OpenAlex ID: W2001129308