Stem cells, microenvironment mechanics, and growth factor activation.
Physicochemical features of a cell's microenvironment can exert important effects on cell behavior and include the effects of matrix elasticity on cell differentiation processes, but molecular mechanisms are largely mysterious. Here we highlight recent reports of a mechanical dependence to growth factor activation, with a particular focus on release of TGFbeta (Transforming Growth Factor beta) from its large latent complex via forced unfolding. We discuss these processes and pathways in the contexts of matrix adhesion and fluid shearing as they might relate to stem cell differentiation and other mechanisms in development, disease, and repair.
Tenney
Rebeca M
RM
Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Discher
Dennis E
DE
D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*; D017510:Protein Folding; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*
D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins