The role of actin-binding protein 280 in integrin-dependent mechanoprotection

Defective Biomechanics and Pharmacological Rescue of Human Cardiomyocytes with Filamin C Truncations

Actin-binding filamin C (FLNC) is expressed in cardiomyocytes, where it localizes to Z-discs, sarcolemma, and intercalated discs. Although FLNC truncation variants (FLNCtv) are an established cause of arrhythmias and heart failure, changes in biomechanical properties of cardiomyocytes are mostly unknown. Thus, we investigated the mechanical properties of human-induced pluripotent stem cells-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) carrying FLNCtv. CRISPR/Cas9 genome-edited homozygous FLNCKO-/- hiPSC-CMs and heterozygous knock-out FLNCKO+/- hiPSC-CMs were analyzed and compared to wild-type FLNC (FLNCWT) hiPSC-CMs. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to perform micro-indentation to evaluate passive and dynamic mechanical properties. A qualitative analysis of the beating traces showed gene dosage-dependent-manner "irregular" peak profiles in FLNCKO+/- and FLNCKO-/- hiPSC-CMs. Two Young's moduli were calculated: E1, reflecting the compression of the plasma membrane and actin cortex, and E2, including the whole cell with a cytoskeleton and nucleus. Both E1 and E2 showed decreased stiffness in mutant FLNCKO+/- and FLNCKO-/- iPSC-CMs compared to that in FLNCWT. The cell adhesion force and work of adhesion were assessed using the retraction curve of the SCFS. Mutant FLNC iPSC-CMs showed gene dosage-dependent decreases in the work of adhesion and adhesion forces from the heterozygous FLNCKO+/- to the FLNCKO-/- model compared to FLNCWT, suggesting damaged cytoskeleton and membrane structures. Finally, we investigated the effect of crenolanib on the mechanical properties of hiPSC-CMs. Crenolanib is an inhibitor of the Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor α (PDGFRA) pathway which is upregulated in FLNCtv hiPSC-CMs. Crenolanib was able to partially rescue the stiffness of FLNCKO-/- hiPSC-CMs compared to control, supporting its potential therapeutic role.

FLNA-filaminopathy skeletal phenotypes are not due to an osteoblast autonomous loss-of-function

Mutations in FLNA, which encodes the cytoskeletal protein FLNA, cause a spectrum of sclerosing skeletal dysplasias. Although many of these genetic variants are recurrent and cluster within the gene, the pathogenic mechanism that underpins the development of these skeletal phenotypes is unknown. To determine if the skeletal dysplasia in FLNA-related conditions is due to a cell-autonomous loss-of-function localising to osteoblasts and/or osteocytes, we utilised mouse models to conditionally remove Flna from this cellular lineage. Flna was conditionally knocked out from mature osteocytes using the Dmp1-promoter driven Cre-recombinase expressing mouse, as well as the committed osteoblast lineage using the Osx-Cre or Col1a1-Cre expressing lines. We measured skeletal parameters with μCT and histological methods, as well as gene expression in the mineralised skeleton. We found no measureable differences between the conditional Flna knockout mice, and their control littermate counterparts. Moreover, all of the conditional Flna knockout mice, developed and aged normally. From this we concluded that the skeletal dysplasia phenotype associated with pathogenic variants in FLNA is not caused by a cell-autonomous loss-of-function in the osteoblast-osteocyte lineage, adding more evidence to the hypothesis that these phenotypes are due to gain-of-function in FLNA.

The force-dependent filamin A-G3BP1 interaction regulates phase-separated stress granule formation

Filamin A (FLNA) is an actin crosslinking protein that mediates mechanotransduction. External and internal mechanical forces, through the actin cytoskeleton, can induce conformational changes of the FLNA molecule to expose cryptic binding sites for its binding partners. Here, we identified Ras GTPase-activating protein SH3 domain-binding protein 1 (G3BP1) as a new FLNA mechanobinding partner. Unlike other FLNA binding partners to the mechanosensing domain repeat 21 (R21), G3BP1 requires an additional neighboring repeat R22 to interact. We demonstrated that their interaction occurs in the cytosol of living cells in an actin polymerization-dependent manner. We also mapped the FLNA-binding site on G3BP1 and found that a F360A point mutation in the RNA recognition motif disrupts the interaction. RNA interfered with the FLNA-G3BP1 interaction, and FLNA did not localize in RNA-rich stress granules (SGs). Disruption of the interaction was sufficient to promote phase-separated SG formation, and arsenite treatment further stimulated the formation of SGs. Taken together, these data identify G3BP1 as a new mechanobinding protein that interacts with the FLNA mechanosensing domain R21 and suggest that SG formation is partially regulated by mechanical force.

Filamin A in platelets: Bridging the (signaling) gap between the plasma membrane and the actin cytoskeleton

Platelets are anucleate cells that are essential for hemostasis and wound healing. Upon activation of the cell surface receptors by their corresponding extracellular ligands, platelets undergo rapid shape change driven by the actin cytoskeleton; this shape change reaction is modulated by a diverse array of actin-binding proteins. One actin-binding protein, filamin A (FLNA), cross-links and stabilizes subcortical actin filaments thus providing stability to the cell membrane. In addition, FLNA binds the intracellular portion of multiple cell surface receptors and acts as a critical intracellular signaling scaffold that integrates signals between the platelet's plasma membrane and the actin cytoskeleton. This mini-review summarizes how FLNA transduces critical cell signals to the platelet cytoskeleton.

Cancer as a biophysical disease: Targeting the mechanical-adaptability program

With the number of cancer cases projected to significantly increase over time, researchers are currently exploring "nontraditional" research fields in the pursuit of novel therapeutics. One emerging area that is steadily gathering interest revolves around cellular mechanical machinery. When looking broadly at the physical properties of cancer, it has been debated whether a cancer could be defined as either stiffer or softer across cancer types. With numerous articles supporting both sides, the evidence instead suggests that cancer is not particularly regimented. Instead, cancer is highly adaptable, allowing it to endure the constantly changing microenvironments cancer cells encounter, such as tumor compression and the shear forces in the vascular system and body. What allows cancer cells to achieve this adaptability are the particular proteins that make up the mechanical network, leading to a particular mechanical program of the cancer cell. Coincidentally, some of these proteins, such as myosin II, α-actinins, filamins, and actin, have either altered expression in cancer and/or some type of direct involvement in cancer progression. For this reason, targeting the mechanical system as a therapeutic strategy may lead to more efficacious treatments in the future. However, targeting the mechanical program is far from trivial. As involved as the mechanical program is in cancer development and metastasis, it also helps drive many other key cellular processes, such as cell division, cell adhesion, metabolism, and motility. Therefore, anti-cancer treatments targeting the mechanical program must take great care to avoid potential side effects. Here, we introduce the potential of targeting the mechanical program while also providing its challenges and shortcomings as a strategy for cancer treatment.

Data driven and biophysical insights into the regulation of trafficking vesicles by extracellular matrix stiffness

Biomechanical signals from remodeled extracellular matrix (ECM) promote tumor progression. Here, we show that cell-matrix and cell-cell communication may be inherently linked and tuned through mechanisms of mechanosensitive biogenesis of trafficking vesicles. Pan-cancer analysis of cancer cells' mechanical properties (focusing primarily on cell stiffness) on substrates of varied stiffness and composition elucidated a heterogeneous cellular response to mechanical stimuli. Through machine learning, we identified a fingerprint of cytoskeleton-related proteins that accurately characterize cell stiffness in different ECM conditions. Expression of their respective genes correlates with patient prognosis across different tumor types. The levels of selected cytoskeleton proteins indicated that cortical tension mirrors the increase (or decrease) in cell stiffness with a change in ECM stiffness. A mechanistic biophysical model shows that the tendency for curvature generation by curvature-inducing proteins has an ultrasensitive dependence on cortical tension. This study thus highlights the effect of ECM stiffness, mediated by cortical tension, in modulating vesicle biogenesis.

β2-Integrins – Regulatory and Executive Bridges in the Signaling Network Controlling Leukocyte Trafficking and Migration

Leukocyte trafficking is an essential process of immunity, occurring as leukocytes travel within the bloodstream and as leukocyte migration within tissues. While it is now established that leukocytes can utilize the mesenchymal migration mode or amoeboid migration mode, differences in the migratory behavior of leukocyte subclasses and how these are realized on a molecular level in each subclass is not fully understood. To outline these differences, first migration modes and their dependence on parameters of the extracellular environments will be explained, as well as the intracellular molecular machinery that powers migration in general. Extracellular parameters are detected by adhesion receptors such as integrins. β2-integrins are surface receptors exclusively expressed on leukocytes and are essential for leukocytes exiting the bloodstream, as well as in mesenchymal migration modes, however, integrins are dispensable for the amoeboid migration mode. Additionally, the balance of different RhoGTPases – which are downstream of surface receptor signaling, including integrins – mediate formation of membrane structures as well as actin dynamics. Individual leukocyte subpopulations have been shown to express distinct RhoGTPase profiles along with their differences in migration behavior, which will be outlined. Emerging aspects of leukocyte migration include signal transduction from integrins via actin to the nucleus that regulates DNA status, gene expression profiles and ultimately leukocyte migratory phenotypes, as well as altered leukocyte migration in tumors, which will be touched upon.

Fos regulates macrophage infiltration against surrounding tissue resistance by a cortical actin-based mechanism in Drosophila

The infiltration of immune cells into tissues underlies the establishment of tissue-resident macrophages and responses to infections and tumors. Yet the mechanisms immune cells utilize to negotiate tissue barriers in living organisms are not well understood, and a role for cortical actin has not been examined. Here, we find that the tissue invasion of Drosophila macrophages, also known as plasmatocytes or hemocytes, utilizes enhanced cortical F-actin levels stimulated by the Drosophila member of the fos proto oncogene transcription factor family (Dfos, Kayak). RNA sequencing analysis and live imaging show that Dfos enhances F-actin levels around the entire macrophage surface by increasing mRNA levels of the membrane spanning molecular scaffold tetraspanin TM4SF, and the actin cross-linking filamin Cheerio, which are themselves required for invasion. Both the filamin and the tetraspanin enhance the cortical activity of Rho1 and the formin Diaphanous and thus the assembly of cortical actin, which is a critical function since expressing a dominant active form of Diaphanous can rescue the Dfos macrophage invasion defect. In vivo imaging shows that Dfos enhances the efficiency of the initial phases of macrophage tissue entry. Genetic evidence argues that this Dfos-induced program in macrophages counteracts the constraint produced by the tension of surrounding tissues and buffers the properties of the macrophage nucleus from affecting tissue entry. We thus identify strengthening the cortical actin cytoskeleton through Dfos as a key process allowing efficient forward movement of an immune cell into surrounding tissues.

The infiltration of immune cells into tissue underlies the establishment of tissue-resident macrophages, and responses to infections and tumors, but how do they overcome tissue barriers? This study shows that macrophages upregulate the proto-oncogene Fos, increasing the density and crosslinking of cortical actin, thereby counteracting the tension of surrounding tissues and protecting the macrophage nucleus.

Myofibroblast Adhesome Analysis by Mass Spectrometry

Myofibroblasts form adhesions to their underlying extracellular matrices, which is an essential step in their formation and differentiation. These adhesions comprise protein-rich aggregates of a wide variety of signaling, cytoskeletal, cell adhesion, and matrix proteins that interact with one another to enable bidirectional flow of information between the cell and the surrounding extracellular matrix. The concentrated repertoire of the proteins in matrix adhesions of myofibroblasts (i.e., over 450 different proteins) and their important role in regulating the metabolic activities of myofibroblasts, has motivated in-depth analysis of their protein complement and how this repertoire is influenced by experimental conditions.In this protocol I describe in detail: (1) the method for isolating focal adhesion-associated proteins using matrix ligand-bound magnetite beads; (2) the method for eluting the proteins from the beads and their preparation for mass spectrometry (Fig. 1). I also briefly consider the mass spectrometry methods including the use of isobaric tags to enable multifactorial experiments and the analysis of the identified proteins. I consider the advantages of these approaches, and the challenges and pitfalls that are encountered with these methods.

A finite element model of an osteoblast to quantify the transduction of exogenous forces to cellular components

Encouraged by recent advances of biophysical and biochemical assays we introduce a 3D finite element model of an osteoblast, seeking an analogue between exogenous forces and intracellularly activated sensory mechanisms. The cell was reverse engineered and the dimensions of the internal cellular structures were based on literature data. The model was verified and validated against atomic force microscopy experiments and four loading scenarios were considered. The stress distributions developing on the main cellular components were calculated along with their corresponding strain values. The nucleus and mitochondria exhibited similar loading trends, with the mitochondria being stressed by an order of magnitude higher than the nucleus (e.g. 1.4 vs. 0.16 MPa). Equivalent stiffness was determined to increase by almost 50%, from the apex to the cell's periphery, as was the cell's elasticity, which was lowest when the load was exerted directly above the nucleus. The assessment of how extrinsic loads are propagated to a cell's internal structures is inherently a problem of high complexity. The findings presented in this study can provide important insight into biophysical and biochemical responses elicited in cells through mechanical stimulus. This was evident in both the nuclear and mitochondrial loading and would stipulate the important contribution of even more accurate models in the interpretation of cellular events. One Sentence Summary: The results of this numerical biomechanical study demonstrated that even minor extrinsic loads irrespective of the application site, are transduced by a fraction of the cytoskeleton to its internal structure (primarily to its mitochondria and secondary to the cell's nucleus), indicating mechanical stimulus as the dominant pathway to cell expression.

Mechanobiology of Autophagy: The Unexplored Side of Cancer

Proper execution of cellular function, maintenance of cellular homeostasis and cell survival depend on functional integration of cellular processes and correct orchestration of cellular responses to stresses. Cancer transformation is a common negative consequence of mismanagement of coordinated response by the cell. In this scenario, by maintaining the balance among synthesis, degradation, and recycling of cytosolic components including proteins, lipids, and organelles the process of autophagy plays a central role. Several environmental stresses activate autophagy, among those hypoxia, DNA damage, inflammation, and metabolic challenges such as starvation. In addition to these chemical challenges, there is a requirement for cells to cope with mechanical stresses stemming from their microenvironment. Cells accomplish this task by activating an intrinsic mechanical response mediated by cytoskeleton active processes and through mechanosensitive protein complexes which interface the cells with their mechano-environment. Despite autophagy and cell mechanics being known to play crucial transforming roles during oncogenesis and malignant progression their interplay is largely overlooked. In this review, we highlight the role of physical forces in autophagy regulation and their potential implications in both physiological as well as pathological conditions. By taking a mechanical perspective, we wish to stimulate novel questions to further the investigation of the mechanical requirements of autophagy and appreciate the extent to which mechanical signals affect this process.

The mechanobiome: a goldmine for cancer therapeutics

Cancer progression is dependent on heightened mechanical adaptation, both for the cells' ability to change shape and to interact with varying mechanical environments. This type of adaptation is dependent on mechanoresponsive proteins that sense and respond to mechanical stress, as well as their regulators. Mechanoresponsive proteins are part of the mechanobiome, which is the larger network that constitutes the cell's mechanical systems that are also highly integrated with many other cellular systems, such as gene expression, metabolism, and signaling. Despite the altered expression patterns of key mechanobiome proteins across many different cancer types, pharmaceutical targeting of these proteins has been overlooked. Here, we review the biochemistry of key mechanoresponsive proteins, specifically nonmuscle myosin II, α-actinins, and filamins, as well as the partnering proteins 14-3-3 and CLP36. We also examined a wide range of data sets to assess how gene and protein expression levels of these proteins are altered across many different cancer types. Finally, we determined the potential of targeting these proteins to mitigate invasion or metastasis and suggest that the mechanobiome is a goldmine of opportunity for anticancer drug discovery and development.

Role of the small GTPase activating protein IQGAP1 in collagen phagocytosis

Many adult connective tissues undergo continuous remodeling to maintain matrix homeostasis. Physiological remodeling involves the degradation of collagen fibers by the intracellular cathepsin-dependent phagocytic pathway. We considered that a multidomain, small GTPase activating protein, IQGAP1, which is involved in the generation of cell extensions, is required for collagen phagocytosis, possibly arising from its interactions with cdc42 and the actin-binding protein Flightless I (FliI). We examined the role of IQGAP1 in collagen phagocytosis by human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and by IQGAP1+/+ and IQGAP1-/- mouse embryonic fibroblasts. IQGAP1 was strongly expressed by HGFs, localized to vinculin-stained cell adhesions and sites where cell extensions are initiated, and colocalized with FliI. Immunoprecipitation showed that IQGAP1 associated with FliI. HGFs showed 10-fold increases of collagen binding, 6-fold higher internalization, and 3-fold higher β1 integrin activation between 30 and 180 min after incubation with collagen. Compared with IQGAP1+/+ fibroblasts, deletion of IQGAP1 reduced collagen binding (1.4-fold), collagen internalization (3-fold), β1 integrin activation (2-fold), and collagen degradation (1.8-fold). We conclude that IQGAP1 affects collagen remodeling through its regulation of phagocytic degradation pathways, which may involve the interaction of IQGAP1 with FliI.

Prune belly syndrome in surviving males can be caused by Hemizygous missense mutations in the X-linked Filamin A gene

Background

Prune belly syndrome (PBS) is a rare, multi-system congenital myopathy primarily affecting males that is poorly described genetically. Phenotypically, its morbidity spans from mild to lethal, however, all isolated PBS cases manifest three cardinal pathological features: 1) wrinkled flaccid ventral abdominal wall with skeletal muscle deficiency, 2) urinary tract dilation with poorly contractile smooth muscle, and 3) intra-abdominal undescended testes. Despite evidence for a genetic basis, previously reported PBS autosomal candidate genes only account for one consanguineous family and single cases.

Methods

We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) of two maternal adult half-brothers with syndromic PBS (PBS + Otopalatodigital spectrum disorder [OPDSD]) and two unrelated sporadic individuals with isolated PBS and further functionally validated the identified mutations.

Results

We identified three unreported hemizygous missense point mutations in the X-chromosome gene Filamin A (FLNA) (c.4952 C > T (p.A1448V), c.6727C > T (p.C2160R), c.5966 G > A (p.G2236E)) in two related cases and two unrelated sporadic individuals. Two of the three PBS mutations map to the highly regulatory, stretch-sensing Ig19–21 region of FLNA and enhance binding to intracellular tails of the transmembrane receptor β-integrin 1 (ITGβ1).

Conclusions

FLNA is a regulatory actin-crosslinking protein that functions in smooth muscle cells as a mechanosensing molecular scaffold, transmitting force signals from the actin-myosin motor units and cytoskeleton via binding partners to the extracellular matrix. This is the first evidence for an X-linked cause of PBS in multiple unrelated individuals and expands the phenotypic spectrum associated with FLNA in males surviving even into adulthood.

Forced Unfolding of Proteins Directs Biochemical Cascades

Many proteins in cells and in the extracellular matrix assemble into force-bearing networks, and some proteins clearly transduce mechanical stimuli into biochemical signals. Although structural mechanisms remain poorly understood, the designs of such proteins enable mechanical forces to either inhibit or facilitate interactions of protein domains with other proteins, including small molecules and enzymes, including proteases and kinases. Here, we review some of the structural proteins and processes that exhibit distinct modes of force-dependent signal conversion.

Cell mechanosensing is regulated by substrate strain energy rather than stiffness

The ability of cells to perceive the mechanical identity of extracellular matrix, generally known as mechanosensing, is generally depicted as a consequence of an intricate balance between pulling forces actuated by the actin fibers on the adhesion plaques and the mechanical reaction of the supporting material. However, whether the cell is sensitive to the stiffness or to the energy required to deform the material remains unclear. To address this important issue, here the cytoskeleton mechanics of BALB/3T3 and MC3T3 cells seeded on linearly elastic substrates under different levels of deformation were studied. In particular, the effect of prestrain on cell mechanics was evaluated by seeding cells both on substrates with no prestrain and on substrates with different levels of prestrain. Results indicated that cells recognize the existence of prestrain, exhibiting a stiffer cytoskeleton on stretched material compared to cells seeded on unstretched substrate. Cytoskeleton mechanics of cells seeded on stretched material were, in addition, comparable to those measured after the stretching of the substrate and cells together to the same level of deformation. This observation clearly suggests that cell mechanosensing is not mediated only by the stiffness of the substrate, as widely assumed in the literature, but also by the deformation energy associated with the substrate. Indeed, the clutch model, based on the exclusive dependence of cell mechanics upon substrate stiffness, fails to describe our experimental results. By modifying the clutch model equations to incorporate the dependence on the strain energy, we were able to correctly interpret the experimental evidence.

Talin-mediated force transmission and talin rod domain unfolding independently regulate adhesion signaling

Talin protein is one of the key components in integrin-mediated adhesion complexes. Talins transmit mechanical forces between β-integrin and actin, and regulate adhesion complex composition and signaling through the force-regulated unfolding of talin rod domain. Using modified talin proteins, we demonstrate that these functions contribute to different cellular processes and can be dissected. The transmission of mechanical forces regulates adhesion complex composition and phosphotyrosine signaling even in the absence of the mechanically regulated talin rod subdomains. However, the presence of the rod subdomains and their mechanical activation are required for the reinforcement of the adhesion complex, cell polarization and migration. Talin rod domain unfolding was also found to be essential for the generation of cellular signaling anisotropy, since both insufficient and excess activity of the rod domain severely inhibited cell polarization. Utilizing proteomics tools, we identified adhesome components that are recruited and activated either in a talin rod-dependent manner or independently of the rod subdomains. This study clarifies the division of roles between the force-regulated unfolding of a talin protein (talin 1) and its function as a physical linker between integrins and the cytoskeleton.

Organ-wide profiling in mouse reveals high editing levels of Filamin B mRNA in the musculoskeletal system

Adenosine to inosine RNA editing in protein-coding messenger RNAs (mRNAs) potentially leads to changes in the amino acid composition of the encoded proteins. The mRNAs encoding the ubiquitously expressed actin-crosslinking proteins Filamin A and Filamin B undergo RNA editing leading to a highly conserved glutamine to arginine exchange at the identical position in either protein. Here, by targeted amplicon sequencing we analysed the RNA editing of Filamin B across several mouse tissues during post-natal development. We find highest filamin B editing levels in skeletal muscles, cartilage and bones, tissues where Filamin B function seems most important. Through the analysis of Filamin B editing in mice deficient in either ADAR1 or 2, we identified ADAR2 as the enzyme responsible for Filamin B RNA editing. We show that in neuronal tissues Filamin B editing drops in spliced transcripts indicating regulated maturation of edited transcripts. We show further that the variability of Filamin B editing across several organs correlates with its mRNA expression.

Filamin A Is Required for Optimal T Cell Integrin-Mediated Force Transmission, Flow Adhesion, and T Cell Trafficking

T cells traffic from the bloodstream into tissues to perform their functions in the immune system and are therefore subjected to a range of different mechanical forces. Integrins are essential for T cell trafficking into the tissues, as they mediate firm adhesion between the T cell and the endothelium under shear flow conditions. In addition, integrins are important for the formation of the contact between the T cell and the APC required for T cell activation. The actin-binding protein filamin A (FlnA) provides an important link between the integrin and the actin cytoskeleton. FlnA has been reported to function as an integrin inhibitor by competing with talin. However, its role in regulating integrin-dependent immune functions in vivo is currently poorly understood. In this study, we have investigated the role of FlnA in T cells, using T cell-specific FlnA knockout mice. We report that FlnA is required for the formation of strong integrin-ligand bonds under shear flow and for the generation of integrin-mediated T cell traction forces on ligand-coated hydrogels. Consequently, absence of FlnA leads to a reduction in T cell adhesion to integrin ligands under conditions of shear flow, as well as reduced T cell trafficking into lymph nodes and sites of skin inflammation. In addition, FlnA is not needed for T cell activation in vivo, which occurs in shear-free conditions in lymphoid organs. Our results therefore reveal a role of FlnA in integrin force transmission and T cell trafficking in vivo.

Asb2α-Filamin A Axis Is Essential for Actin Cytoskeleton Remodeling During Heart Development

RATIONALE

Heart development involves differentiation of cardiac progenitors and assembly of the contractile sarcomere apparatus of cardiomyocytes. However, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate actin cytoskeleton remodeling during cardiac cell differentiation.

OBJECTIVE

The Asb2α (Ankyrin repeat-containing protein with a suppressor of cytokine signaling box 2) CRL5 (cullin 5 RING E3 ubiquitin ligase) triggers polyubiquitylation and subsequent degradation by the proteasome of FLNs (filamins). Here, we investigate the role of Asb2α in heart development and its mechanisms of action.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using Asb2 knockout embryos, we show that Asb2 is an essential gene, critical to heart morphogenesis and function, although its loss does not interfere with the overall patterning of the embryonic heart tube. We show that the Asb2α E3 ubiquitin ligase controls Flna stability in immature cardiomyocytes. Importantly, Asb2α-mediated degradation of the actin-binding protein Flna marks a previously unrecognized intermediate step in cardiac cell differentiation characterized by cell shape changes and actin cytoskeleton remodeling. We further establish that in the absence of Asb2α, myofibrils are disorganized and that heartbeats are inefficient, leading to embryonic lethality in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings identify Asb2α as an unsuspected key regulator of cardiac cell differentiation and shed light on the molecular and cellular mechanisms determining the onset of myocardial cell architecture and its link with early cardiac function. Although Flna is known to play roles in cytoskeleton organization and to be required for heart function, this study now reveals that its degradation mediated by Asb2α ensures essential functions in differentiating cardiac progenitors.

Dynamic regulation of TREK1 gating by Polycystin 2 via a Filamin A-mediated cytoskeletal Mechanism

Mechanosensing is essential for several physiological functions including touch and pain sensations, osmoregulation, and controlling the myogenic tone of resistance arteries. Understanding how mechanosensitive ion channels (MSCs) are gated can provide important information regarding these processes. We have previously demonstrated that during pathological conditions such as polycystic kidney disease, polycystin 2 (TRPP2) inhibits the activity of potassium-selective MSCs through a filamin A-mediated cytoskeletal effect, and renders tubular epithelial cells susceptible to apoptosis. However, the nature of this cytoskeletal inhibition remains poorly understood. In this study we use a combination of electrophysiology, structured illumination microscopy, and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) to examine the dynamic nature of the TRPP2-mediated cytoskeletal inhibition of the potassium-selective MSC TREK1. Our data indicate that this inhibition of MSC activity occurs through an accelerated cytoskeletal inhibition, and ultimately decreases the open probability of the TREK1 channel. These results shed light on a novel mode of regulation of MSCs gating, which may be at play in several physiological functions.

Filamin A promotes efficient migration and phagocytosis of neutrophil-like HL-60 cells

The primary defense machinery to combat inflammation involves neutrophil granulocytes which in order to execute their functions rely on the efficiency of different cellular mechanisms including adhesion, spreading, migration in different environments, and phagocytosis. These functions require an accurately regulated actin network as well as the activation and adjustment of various signaling pathways. Mammalian filamins (FLNs) comprise three highly homologous large actin-binding proteins that are obvious candidates to control these processes as FLNs have been described to play a role in migration, spreading and adhesion in a variety of different cell types. The present study analyzed the role of filamin A (FLNa) in human neutrophil-like HL-60 cells. We found a strong enrichment of FLNa at the uropod of migrating neutrophils, and show that deficiency of FLNa caused a decrease in speed of migration both in 2D and 3D that is accompanied by a reduced activation of myosin-II. In addition, we show that FLNa plays a role in neutrophil phagocytosis. We also identified a hitherto unknown interaction of FLNa with coronin 1A that is mediated by FLNa repeats 9-18. FLNa deficiency had no or only minor effects on cell adhesion and spreading. In summary, deficiency of FLNa in human neutrophil-like HL-60 cells resulted in a surprisingly subtle phenotype. Our data indicate that FLNa is not essential for the regulation of mechanical properties during migration, but contributes to motility in a modulatory manner probably through its action at the uropod.

Molecular mechanisms of mechanotransduction in integrin-mediated cell-matrix adhesion

Cell-matrix adhesion complexes are multi-protein structures linking the extracellular matrix (ECM) to the cytoskeleton. They are essential to both cell motility and function by bidirectionally sensing and transmitting mechanical and biochemical stimulations. Several types of cell-matrix adhesions have been identified and they share many key molecular components, such as integrins and actin-integrin linkers. Mechanochemical coupling between ECM molecules and the actin cytoskeleton has been observed from the single cell to the single molecule level and from immune cells to neuronal cells. However, the mechanisms underlying force regulation of integrin-mediated mechanotransduction still need to be elucidated. In this review article, we focus on integrin-mediated adhesions and discuss force regulation of cell-matrix adhesions and key adaptor molecules, three different force-dependent behaviors, and molecular mechanisms for mechanochemical coupling in force regulation.

Mutations in MAP3K7 that Alter the Activity of the TAK1 Signaling Complex Cause Frontometaphyseal Dysplasia

Frontometaphyseal dysplasia (FMD) is a progressive sclerosing skeletal dysplasia affecting the long bones and skull. The cause of FMD in some individuals is gain-of-function mutations in FLNA, although how these mutations result in a hyperostotic phenotype remains unknown. Approximately one half of individuals with FMD have no identified mutation in FLNA and are phenotypically very similar to individuals with FLNA mutations, except for an increased tendency to form keloid scars. Using whole-exome sequencing and targeted Sanger sequencing in 19 FMD-affected individuals with no identifiable FLNA mutation, we identified mutations in two genes-MAP3K7, encoding transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-activated kinase (TAK1), and TAB2, encoding TAK1-associated binding protein 2 (TAB2). Four mutations were found in MAP3K7, including one highly recurrent (n = 15) de novo mutation (c.1454C>T [ p.Pro485Leu]) proximal to the coiled-coil domain of TAK1 and three missense mutations affecting the kinase domain (c.208G>C [p.Glu70Gln], c.299T>A [p.Val100Glu], and c.502G>C [p.Gly168Arg]). Notably, the subjects with the latter three mutations had a milder FMD phenotype. An additional de novo mutation was found in TAB2 (c.1705G>A, p.Glu569Lys). The recurrent mutation does not destabilize TAK1, or impair its ability to homodimerize or bind TAB2, but it does increase TAK1 autophosphorylation and alter the activity of more than one signaling pathway regulated by the TAK1 kinase complex. These findings show that dysregulation of the TAK1 complex produces a close phenocopy of FMD caused by FLNA mutations. Furthermore, they suggest that the pathogenesis of some of the filaminopathies caused by FLNA mutations might be mediated by misregulation of signaling coordinated through the TAK1 signaling complex.

Endothelial RSPO3 Controls Vascular Stability and Pruning through Non-canonical WNT/Ca(2+)/NFAT Signaling

The WNT signaling enhancer R-spondin3 (RSPO3) is prominently expressed in the vasculature. Correspondingly, embryonic lethality of Rspo3-deficient mice is caused by vessel remodeling defects. Yet the mechanisms underlying vascular RSPO3 function remain elusive. Inducible endothelial Rspo3 deletion (Rspo3-iECKO) resulted in perturbed developmental and tumor vascular remodeling. Endothelial cell apoptosis and vascular pruning led to reduced microvessel density in Rspo3-iECKO mice. Rspo3-iECKO mice strikingly phenocopied the non-canonical WNT signaling-induced vascular defects of mice deleted for the WNT secretion factor Evi/Wls. An endothelial screen for RSPO3 and EVI/WLS co-regulated genes identified Rnf213, Usp18, and Trim30α. RNF213 targets filamin A and NFAT1 for proteasomal degradation attenuating non-canonical WNT/Ca(2+) signaling. Likewise, USP18 and TRIM5α inhibited NFAT1 activation. Consequently, NFAT protein levels were decreased in endothelial cells of Rspo3-iECKO mice and pharmacological NFAT inhibition phenocopied Rspo3-iECKO mice. The data identify endothelial RSPO3-driven non-canonical WNT/Ca(2+)/NFAT signaling as a critical maintenance pathway of the remodeling vasculature.

Phenotype and genotype in patients with Larsen syndrome: clinical homogeneity and allelic heterogeneity in seven patients

Background

Larsen syndrome is an autosomal dominant skeletal dysplasia characterized by large joint dislocations and craniofacial dysmorphism. It is caused by missense or small in-frame deletions in the FLNB gene. To further characterize the phenotype and the mutation spectrum of this condition, we investigated seven probands, five sporadic individuals and a mother-son-duo with Larsen syndrome.

Methods

The seven patients from six unrelated families were clinically and radiologically evaluated. All patients were screened for mutations in selected exons and exon-intron boundaries of the FLNB gene by Sanger sequencing. FLNB transcript analysis was carried out in one patient to analyse the effect of the sequence variant on pre-mRNA splicing.

Results

All patients exhibited typical facial features and joint dislocations. Contrary to the widely described advanced carpal ossification, we noted delay in two patients. We identified the five novel mutations c.4927G > A/p.(Gly1643Ser), c.4876G > T / p.(Gly1626Trp), c.4664G > A / p.(Gly1555Asp), c.2055G > C / p.Gln685delins10 and c.5021C > T / p.(Ala1674Val) as well as a frequently observed mutation in Larsen syndrome [c.5164G > A/p.(Gly1722Ser)] in the hotspot regions. FLNB transcript analysis of the c.2055G > C variant revealed insertion of 27 bp intronic sequence between exon 13 and 14 which gives rise to in-frame deletion of glutamine 685 and insertion of ten novel amino acid residues (p.Gln685delins10).

Conclusions

All seven individuals with Larsen syndrome had a uniform clinical phenotype except for delayed carpal ossification in two of them. Our study reveals five novel FLNB mutations and confirms immunoglobulin-like (Ig) repeats 14 and 15 as major hotspot regions. The p.Gln685delins10 mutation is the first Larsen syndrome-associated alteration located in Ig repeat 5. All mutations reported so far leave the filamin B protein intact in accordance with a gain-of-function effect. Our findings underscore the characteristic clinical picture of FLNB-associated Larsen syndrome and add Ig repeat 5 to the filamin B domains affected by the clustered mutations.

A distinct X-linked syndrome involving joint contractures, keloids, large optic cup-to-disc ratio, and renal stones results from a filamin A (FLNA) mutation

We further evaluated a previously reported family with an apparently undescribed X-linked syndrome involving joint contractures, keloids, an increased optic cup-to-disc ratio, and renal stones to elucidate the genetic cause. To do this, we obtained medical histories and performed physical examination on 14 individuals in the family, five of whom are affected males and three are obligate carrier females. Linkage analysis was performed on all but one individual and chromosome X-exome sequencing was done on two affected males. The analysis localized the putative gene to Xq27-qter and chromosome X-exome sequencing revealed a mutation in exon 28 (c.4726G>A) of the filamin A (FLNA) gene, predicting that a conserved glycine had been replaced by arginine at amino acid 1576 (p.G1576R). Segregation analysis demonstrated that all known carrier females tested were heterozygous (G/A), all affected males were hemizygous for the mutation (A allele) and all normal males were hemizygous for the normal G allele. The data and the bioinformatic analysis indicate that the G1576R mutation in the FLNA gene is very likely pathogenic in this family. The syndrome affecting the family shares phenotypic overlap with other syndromes caused by FLNA mutations, but appears to be a distinct phenotype, likely representing a unique genetic syndrome.

F-actin clustering and cell dysmotility induced by the pathological W148R missense mutation of filamin B at the actin-binding domain

Filamin B (FLNB) is a dimeric actin-binding protein that orchestrates the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. Congenital mutations of FLNB at the actin-binding domain (ABD) are known to cause abnormalities of skeletal development, such as atelosteogenesis types I and III and Larsen's syndrome, although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, using fluorescence microscopy, we characterized the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton in cells expressing each of six pathological FLNB mutants that have been linked to skeletal abnormalities. The subfractionation assay showed a greater accumulation of the FLNB ABD mutants W148R and E227K than the wild-type protein to the cytoskeleton. Ectopic expression of FLNB-W148R and, to a lesser extent, FLNB-E227K induced prominent F-actin accumulations and the consequent rearrangement of focal adhesions, myosin II, and septin filaments and results in a delayed directional migration of the cells. The W148R protein-induced cytoskeletal rearrangement was partially attenuated by the inhibition of myosin II, p21-activated protein kinase, or Rho-associated protein kinase. The expression of a single-head ABD fragment with the mutations partially mimicked the rearrangement induced by the dimer. The F-actin clustering through the interaction with the mutant FLNB ABD may limit the cytoskeletal reorganization, preventing normal skeletal development.

Molecular-Scale Tools for Studying Mechanotransduction

Mechanical stimuli are known to be potent regulators of the form and function of cells and organisms. Although biological regulation has classically been understood in terms of principles from solution biochemistry, advancements in many fields have led to the development of a suite of techniques that are able to reveal the interplay between mechanical loading and changes in the biochemical properties of proteins in systems ranging from single molecules to living organisms. Here, we review these techniques and highlight the emergence of a new molecular-scale understanding of the mechanisms mediating the detection and response of cells to mechanical stimuli, a process termed mechanotransduction. Specifically, we focus on the role of subcellular adhesion structures in sensing the stiffness of the surrounding environment because this process is pertinent to applications in tissue engineering as well the onset of several mechanosensitive disease states, including cancer.

Mechanical transduction by ion channels: A cautionary tale

Mechanical transduction by ion channels occurs in all cells. The physiological functions of these channels have just begun to be elaborated, but if we focus on the upper animal kingdom, these channels serve the common sensory services such as hearing and touch, provide the central nervous system with information on the force and position of muscles and joints, and they provide the autonomic system with information about the filling of hollow organs such as blood vessels. However, all cells of the body have mechanosensitive channels (MSCs), including red cells. Most of these channels are cation selective and are activated by bilayer tension. There are also K⁺ selective MSCs found commonly in neurons where they may be responsible for both general anesthesia and knockout punches in the boxing ring by hyperpolarizing neurons to reduce excitability. The cationic MSCs are typically inactive under normal mechanical stress, but open under pathologic stress. The channels are normally inactive because they are shielded from stress by the cytoskeleton. The cationic MSCs are specifically blocked by the externally applied peptide GsMtx4 (aka, AT-300). This is the first drug of its class and provides a new approach to many pathologies since it is nontoxic, non-immunogenic, stable in a biological environment and has a long pharmacokinetic lifetime. Pathologies involving excessive stress are common. They produce cardiac arrhythmias, contraction in stretched dystrophic muscle, xerocytotic and sickled red cells, etc. The channels seem to function primarily as “fire alarms”, providing feedback to the cytoskeleton that a region of the bilayer is under excessive tension and needs reinforcing. The eukaryotic forms of MSCs have only been cloned in recent years and few people have experience working with them. “Newbies” need to become aware of the technology, potential artifacts, and the fundamentals of mechanics. The most difficult problem in studying MSCs is that the actual stimulus, the force applied to the channel, is not known. We don’t have direct access to the channels themselves but only to larger regions of the membrane as seen in patches. Cortical forces are shared by the bilayer, the cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix. How much of an applied stimulus reaches the channel is unknown. Furthermore, many of these channels exist in spatial domains where the forces within a domain are different from forces outside the domain, although we often hope they are proportional. This review is intended to be a guide for new investigators who want to study mechanosensitive ion channels.

Flexible Structure of Peptide-Bound Filamin A Mechanosensor Domain Pair 20-21

Filamins (FLNs) are large, multidomain actin cross-linking proteins with diverse functions. Besides regulating the actin cytoskeleton, they serve as important links between the extracellular matrix and the cytoskeleton by binding cell surface receptors, functioning as scaffolds for signaling proteins, and binding several other cytoskeletal proteins that regulate cell adhesion dynamics. Structurally, FLNs are formed of an amino terminal actin-binding domain followed by 24 immunoglobulin-like domains (IgFLNs). Recent studies have demonstrated that myosin-mediated contractile forces can reveal hidden protein binding sites in the domain pairs IgFLNa18–19 and 20–21, enabling FLNs to transduce mechanical signals in cells. The atomic structures of these mechanosensor domain pairs in the resting state are known, as well as the structures of individual IgFLN21 with ligand peptides. However, little experimental data is available on how interacting protein binding deforms the domain pair structures. Here, using small-angle x-ray scattering-based modelling, x-ray crystallography, and NMR, we show that the adaptor protein migfilin-derived peptide-bound structure of IgFLNa20–21 is flexible and adopts distinctive conformations depending on the presence or absence of the interacting peptide. The conformational changes reported here may be common for all peptides and may play a role in the mechanosensor function of the site.

Mechanical dynamics in live cells and fluorescence-based force/tension sensors

Three signaling systems play the fundamental roles in modulating cell activities: chemical, electrical, and mechanical. While the former two are well studied, the mechanical signaling system is still elusive because of the lack of methods to measure structural forces in real time at cellular and subcellular levels. Indeed, almost all biological processes are responsive to modulation by mechanical forces that trigger dispersive downstream electrical and biochemical pathways. Communication among the three systems is essential to make cells and tissues receptive to environmental changes. Cells have evolved many sophisticated mechanisms for the generation, perception and transduction of mechanical forces, including motor proteins and mechanosensors. In this review, we introduce some background information about mechanical dynamics in live cells, including the ubiquitous mechanical activity, various types of mechanical stimuli exerted on cells and the different mechanosensors. We also summarize recent results obtained using genetically encoded FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer)-based force/tension sensors; a new technique used to measure mechanical forces in structural proteins. The sensors have been incorporated into many specific structural proteins and have measured the force gradients in real time within live cells, tissues, and animals.

A mechanism of global shape-dependent recognition and phosphorylation of filamin by protein kinase A

Protein phosphorylation mediates essentially all aspects of cellular life. In humans, this is achieved by ∼500 kinases, each recognizing a specific consensus motif (CM) in the substrates. The majority of CMs are surface-exposed and are thought to be accessible to kinases for phosphorylation. Here we investigated the archetypical protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated phosphorylation of filamin, a major cytoskeletal protein that can adopt an autoinhibited conformation. Surprisingly, autoinhibited filamin is refractory to phosphorylation by PKA on a known Ser(2152) site despite its CM being exposed and the corresponding isolated peptide being readily phosphorylated. Structural analysis revealed that although the CM fits into the PKA active site its surrounding regions sterically clash with the kinase. However, upon ligand binding, filamin undergoes a conformational adjustment, allowing rapid phosphorylation on Ser(2152). These data uncover a novel ligand-induced conformational switch to trigger filamin phosphorylation. They further suggest a substrate shape-dependent filtering mechanism that channels specific exposed CM/kinase recognition in diverse signaling responses.

Phage-display-guided nanocarrier targeting to atheroprone vasculature

In regions of the circulation where vessels are straight and unbranched, blood flow is laminar and unidirectional. In contrast, at sites of curvature, branch points, and regions distal to stenoses, blood flow becomes disturbed. Atherosclerosis preferentially develops in these regions of disturbed blood flow. Current therapies for atherosclerosis are systemic and may not sufficiently target these atheroprone regions. In this study, we sought to leverage the alterations on the luminal surface of endothelial cells caused by this atheroprone flow for nanocarrier targeting. In vivo phage display was used to discover unique peptides that selectively bind to atheroprone regions in the mouse partial carotid artery ligation model. The peptide GSPREYTSYMPH (PREY) was found to bind 4.5-fold more avidly to the region of disturbed flow and was used to form targeted liposomes. When administered intravenously, PREY-targeted liposomes preferentially accumulated in endothelial cells in the partially occluded carotid artery and other areas of disturbed flow. Proteomic analysis and immunoblotting indicated that fibronectin and Filamin-A were preferentially bound by PREY nanocarriers in vessels with disturbed flow. In additional experiments, PREY nanocarriers were used therapeutically to deliver the nitric oxide synthase cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), which we have previously shown to be deficient in regions of disturbed flow. This intervention increased vascular BH4 and reduced vascular superoxide in the partially ligated artery in wild-type mice and reduced plaque burden in the partially ligated left carotid artery of fat fed atheroprone mice (ApoE(-/-)). Targeting atheroprone sites of the circulation with functionalized nanocarriers provides a promising approach for prevention of early atherosclerotic lesion formation.

Role of discoidin domain receptor 1 in dysregulation of collagen remodeling by cyclosporin A

The anti-transplant rejection drug cyclosporin A (CsA) causes loss of collagen homeostasis in rapidly remodeling connective tissues, such as human gingiva. As a result of CsA treatment, collagen degradation by fibroblasts is inhibited, which leads to a net increase of tissue collagen and gingival overgrowth. Since fibrillar collagen is the primary ligand for the discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), we hypothesized that CsA perturbs DDR1-associated functions that affect collagen homeostasis. For these experiments, human fibroblasts obtained from gingival explants or mouse 3T3 fibroblasts (wild type, over-expressing DDR1 or DDR1 knockdown) or mouse GD25 cells (expressing DDR1 but null for β1 integrin), were treated with vehicle (dimethyl sulfoxide) or with CsA. The effect of CsA on cell binding to collagen was examined by flow cytometry; cell-mediated collagen remodeling was analyzed with contraction, compaction and migration assays. We found that CsA inhibited cell binding to collagen, internalization of collagen, contraction of collagen gels and cell migration over collagen in a DDR1-dependent manner. CsA also enhanced collagen compaction around cell extensions. Treatment with CsA strongly reduced surface levels of β1 integrins in wild type and DDR1 over-expressing 3T3 cells but did not affect β1 integrin activation or focal adhesion formation. We conclude that CsA inhibition of collagen remodeling is mediated through its effects on both DDR1 and cell surface levels of the β1 integrin.

Filamin A interaction with the CXCR4 third intracellular loop regulates endocytosis and signaling of WT and WHIM-like receptors

Warts, hypogammaglobulinemia, infections, and myelokathexis (WHIM) syndrome is a rare congenital immunodeficiency often caused by mutations in the last 10 to 19 C-terminal amino acids of CXCR4. These mutations impair CXCR4 internalization and increase responsiveness to CXCL12. The CXCR4 C-terminal domain (C-tail) also has a binding site for the actin-binding protein filamin A (FLNA); it is not known whether FLNA binds to WHIM CXCR4 mutants or whether this interaction is implicated in the hyperfunction of these receptors. Here we show that, in addition to interacting with the CXCR4 C-tail, FLNA interacted with a region in the receptor third intracellular loop (ICL3) spanning amino acids 238 to 246. This interaction involved specific FLNA repeats and was sensitive to Rho kinase inhibition. Deletion of the 238-246 motif accelerated CXCL12-induced wild-type (WT) receptor endocytosis but enabled CXCL12-mediated endocytosis and normalized signaling by the WHIM-associated receptor CXCR4(R334X). CXCL12 stimulation triggered CXCR4(R334X) internalization in FLNA-deficient M2 cells but not in the FLNA-expressing M2 subclone A7; this suggests a role for FLNA in stabilization of WHIM-like CXCR4 at the cell surface. FLNA increased β-arrestin2 binding to CXCR4(R334X) in vivo, which provides a molecular basis for FLNA-mediated hyperactivation of WHIM receptor signaling. We propose that FLNA interaction with ICL3 is central for endocytosis and signaling of WT and WHIM-like CXCR4 receptors.

TGF-β regulates LARG and GEF-H1 during EMT to affect stiffening response to force and cell invasion

Recent studies implicate a role for cell mechanics in cancer progression. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) regulates the detachment of cancer cells from the epithelium and facilitates their invasion into stromal tissue. Although classic EMT hallmarks include loss of cell-cell adhesions, morphology changes, and increased invasion capacity, little is known about the associated mechanical changes. Previously, force application on integrins has been shown to initiate cytoskeletal rearrangements that result in increased cell stiffness and a stiffening response. Here we demonstrate that transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-induced EMT results in decreased stiffness and loss of the normal stiffening response to force applied on integrins. We find that suppression of the RhoA guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) LARG and GEF-H1 through TGF-β/ALK5-enhanced proteasomal degradation mediates these changes in cell mechanics and affects EMT-associated invasion. Taken together, our results reveal a functional connection between attenuated stiffness and stiffening response and the increased invasion capacity acquired after TGF-β-induced EMT.

Activation of neurotensin receptor 1 facilitates neuronal excitability and spatial learning and memory in the entorhinal cortex: beneficial actions in an Alzheimer's disease model

Neurotensin (NT) is a tridecapeptide distributed in the CNS, including the entorhinal cortex (EC), a structure that is crucial for learning and memory and undergoes the earliest pathological alterations in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Whereas NT has been implicated in modulating cognition, the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which NT modifies cognitive processes and the potential therapeutic roles of NT in AD have not been determined. Here we examined the effects of NT on neuronal excitability and spatial learning in the EC, which expresses high density of NT receptors. Brief application of NT induced persistent increases in action potential firing frequency, which could last for at least 1 h. NT-induced facilitation of neuronal excitability was mediated by downregulation of TREK-2 K(+) channels and required the functions of NTS1, phospholipase C, and protein kinase C. Microinjection of NT or NTS1 agonist, PD149163, into the EC increased spatial learning as assessed by the Barnes Maze Test. Activation of NTS1 receptors also induced persistent increases in action potential firing frequency and significantly improved the memory status in APP/PS1 mice, an animal model of AD. Our study identifies a cellular substrate underlying learning and memory and suggests that NTS1 agonists may exert beneficial actions in an animal model of AD.

Non-channel mechanosensors working at focal adhesion-stress fiber complex

Mechanosensitive ion channels (MSCs) have long been the only established molecular class of cell mechanosensors; however, in the last decade, a variety of non-channel type mechanosensor molecules have been identified. Many of them are focal adhesion-associated proteins that include integrin, talin, and actin. Mechanosensors must be non-soluble molecules firmly interacting with relatively rigid cellular structures such as membranes (in terms of lateral stiffness), cytoskeletons, and adhesion structures. The partner of MSCs is the membrane in which MSC proteins efficiently transduce changes in the membrane tension into conformational changes that lead to channel opening. By contrast, the integrin, talin, and actin filament form a linear complex of which both ends are typically anchored to the extracellular matrices via integrins. Upon cell deformation by forces, this structure turns out to be a portion that efficiently transduces the generated stress into conformational changes of composite molecules, leading to the activation of integrin (catch bond with extracellular matrices) and talin (unfolding to induce vinculin bindings). Importantly, this structure also serves as an "active" mechanosensor to detect substrate rigidity by pulling the substrate with contraction of actin stress fibers (SFs), which may induce talin unfolding and an activation of MSCs in the vicinity of integrins. A recent study demonstrates that the actin filament acts as a mechanosensor with unique characteristics; the filament behaves as a negative tension sensor in which increased torsional fluctuations by tension decrease accelerate ADF/cofilin binding, leading to filament disruption. Here, we review the latest progress in the study of those non-channel mechanosensors and discuss their activation mechanisms and physiological roles.

Bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia with megalencephaly: a case report

Bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia is a neuronal migration disorder characterized by gray matter cellular rests in the periventricular regions. Megalencephaly has not been reported in children with bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia. No other disorder with a similar phenotype has been reported. Here we report the case of a 5-year-old Japanese boy with bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia and megalencephaly. Relative macrocephaly was evident at birth, and bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia and megalencephaly were noted on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, no hydrocephalus or indication of cerebral cortical dysplasia was seen. A mild intellectual disability was present, but the patient had no history of seizures. Genetic analysis revealed no mutation on the capillary sequences for FLNA, and no pathogenic abnormalities were evident on array comparative genomic hybridization. This case could represent a new disease entity: bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia with megalencephaly.

Mechanotransduction pathways linking the extracellular matrix to the nucleus

Cells contain several mechanosensing components that transduce mechanical signals into biochemical cascades. During cell-ECM adhesion, a complex network of molecules mechanically couples the extracellular matrix (ECM), cytoskeleton, and nucleoskeleton. The network comprises transmembrane receptor proteins and focal adhesions, which link the ECM and cytoskeleton. Additionally, recently identified protein complexes extend this linkage to the nucleus by linking the cytoskeleton and the nucleoskeleton. Despite numerous studies in this field, due to the complexity of this network, our knowledge of the mechanisms of cell-ECM adhesion at the molecular level remains remarkably incomplete. Herein, we present a review of the structures of key molecules involved in cell-ECM adhesion, along with an evaluation of their predicted roles in mechanical sensing. Additionally, specific binding events prompted by force-induced conformational changes of each molecule are discussed. Finally, we propose a model for the biomechanical events prominent in cell-ECM adhesion.