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Spatiotemporal feedback between actomyosin and focal-adhesion systems optimizes rapid cell migration
Stephanie L Gupton1, Clare M Waterman-Storer
1Department of Cell Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
Cell
|July 4, 2006
Summary
Cell migration speed depends on adhesion strength, with optimal speed at intermediate levels. This study reveals complex subcellular interactions, not just simple mechanics, drive rapid cell movement.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Biophysics
- Mechanobiology
Background:
- Cell migration velocity shows a biphasic response to adhesion strength.
- Previous models suggest simple mechanical limitations at low and high adhesion.
- Optimal cell migration occurs at intermediate extracellular matrix (ECM) concentrations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the subcellular mechanisms underlying rapid cell migration.
- To investigate the complex interplay of cellular systems mediating migration velocity.
- To contrast findings with existing simple mechanical models of cell migration.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of actin, myosin II, and focal adhesion (FA) organization and activity.
- Experimental manipulation of myosin II activity.
- Correlation of subcellular dynamics with cell motility rates.
Main Results:
- Cell migration is mediated by a complex interdependence of subcellular systems.
- Actin, myosin II, and FA dynamics are spatially and temporally variable.
- Myosin II activity manipulation can recapitulate rapid migration at non-optimal ECM concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Optimal cell migration velocity arises from a balance between cell-matrix adhesion and actomyosin contractility.
- The interplay between actomyosin and focal adhesion dynamics is crucial for maximal migration.
- Cell migration is more complex than previously modeled, involving intricate subcellular regulation.
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