Figures & data
Figure 1. Localized tension on PECAM-1 elicits global RhoA activation. Endothelial cells expressing the RhoA biosensor were incubated with anti-PECAM-1-coated beads and subjected to force with a permanent ceramic magnet for the indicated times. Cells were fixed and analyzed for FRET. Autofluorescent beads are highlighted in black dotted circles.
Figure 2. Model of PECAM-1-mediated mechanotransduction. Force-dependent activation of PI3K downstream of PECAM-1 promotes global activation of integrins, cell-wide activation of RhoA, and global growth of focal adhesions. Cell-wide propagation of the signaling cascade facilitates adaptive stiffening and strengthening of adhesions, which function to resist the applied force.
