A possible molecular mechanism for mechanotransduction at cellular focal adhesion complexes

Abstract

Mechanotransduction at focal adhesion complexes is key for various cellular events. Theoretical analyses were performed to predict a potential role of lipid membranes in modulating mechanotransduction at focal adhesions. Calculations suggest that the nanoscale geometric changes and mechanical pulling applied on lipid membranes affect the generation of cellular traction forces and signaling transduction at focal adhesions. This work provides predictions on how lipid membranes contribute to mechanotransduction at cellular focal adhesions. Significance statementFocal adhesion machinery formed across cell membranes orchestrates a variety of signaling and adhesive molecules to function for important cellular physiologies. Although there are evidences that lipid membranes are involved in mechanical transduction at focal adhesions, how the detailed mechanical response of membranes contributes to the process is not identified yet. With numerous data previously identified, predictions made by theoretical modeling suggest that the nonlinear pulling response of lipid membranes serves as a key factor to interpret mechanotransduction at focal adhesions.