title: Actin dynamics associated with focal adhesions.
abstract: Cell-matrix adhesion plays a major role during cell migration. Proteins from adhesion structures connect the extracellular matrix to the actin cytoskeleton, allowing the growing actin network to push the plasma membrane and the contractile cables (stress fibers) to pull the cell body. Force transmission to the extracellular matrix depends on several parameters including the regulation of actin dynamics in adhesion structures, the contractility of stress fibers, and the mechanosensitive response of adhesion structures. Here we highlight recent findings on the molecular mechanisms by which actin assembly is regulated in adhesion structures and the molecular basis of the mechanosensitivity of focal adhesions.
authors.affiliation: Laboratoire d'Enzymologie et Biochimie Structurales, Centre de Recherche CNRS de Gif-sur-Yvette, avenue de la Terrasse, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
authors.forename: Corina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ciobanasu
authors.forename: Bruno
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Faivre
authors.forename: Christophe
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Le Clainche