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Updated: Mar 11, 2026

A Simplified System for Evaluating Cell Mechanosensing and Durotaxis In Vitro
Published on: August 27, 2015
[p130Cas-Mediated Regulation of Mechanical Functions of Cells.]
Yasuhiro Sawada1, Hiroaki Hirata2
1Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute,National Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities, Japan.
Abstract:
It is 10 years since we reported Cas as a cell mechano-sensor that converts stretching force to a biochemical signal. While we have been looking into the mechanism of how Cas molecules are extended, it appears that the source of stretching force does not derive from actomyosin contraction, but originates from actin polymerization. Furthermore, we have found that phosphorylated Cas links actomyosin contraction to cell migration by tensin 1-mediated association with inwardly moving actin filaments. Collectively, Cas serves as a force sensor at the cell leading edges as well as a part of force transmission machinery, i.e. clutch, which drives the cell forward.
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