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Updated: Aug 20, 2025

Analyzing Cell Surface Adhesion Remodeling in Response to Mechanical Tension Using Magnetic Beads
Published on: March 8, 2017
Integrin Conformational Dynamics and Mechanotransduction
Reza Kolasangiani1,2, Tamara C Bidone1,2, Martin A Schwartz3,4,5
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
Abstract:
The function of the integrin family of receptors as central mediators of cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell-cell adhesion requires a remarkable convergence of interactions and influences. Integrins must be anchored to the cytoskeleton and bound to extracellular ligands in order to provide firm adhesion, with force transmission across this linkage conferring tissue integrity. Integrin affinity to ligands is highly regulated by cell signaling pathways, altering affinity constants by 1000-fold or more, via a series of long-range conformational transitions. In this review, we first summarize basic, well-known features of integrin conformational states and then focus on new information concerning the impact of mechanical forces on these states and interstate transitions. We also discuss how these effects may impact mechansensitive cell functions and identify unanswered questions for future studies.
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