Chapter Three - Focal Adhesions Function as a Mechanosensor

Abstract

Focal adhesions (FAs) are complex plasma membrane-associated macromolecular assemblies that engage with the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM) via integrin receptors and physically connect with the actin cytoskeleton through the recruitment of numerous FA-associated proteins. FAs undergo a maturation process, which is known to be induced by biochemical or physical cues, to grow and change composition. Varying FA size, distribution, dynamics, and compositions during maturation process is required for transducing the specific signaling networks that reflect the requirements of a cell to sense, adapt, and response to a variety of the environments. While advances have been demonstrated in understanding how important FAs are in mediating various biological processes, less is known about how FA composition is regulated and coordinately transduces the specific signals in mediating the distinct biological outcomes, especially cell migration.