Nanoscale mechano-adaption of integrin-based cell adhesions: New tools and techniques lead the way

Abstract

Force generation and transmission in biological systems are driven by protein-based machinery organized at the nanoscale. Thus, technological advances that allow for the measurement or manipulation of molecular-scale features are key to new mechanobiological insights. Integrins, a superfamily of adhesion receptors, function by forming supramolecular complexes that mediate mechanobiological processes such as migration and matrix remodeling. This review highlights recent findings that harness advanced techniques in microscopy, nanotechnology, and biosensors to uncover nanoscale transformations that accompany integrin responses to mechanobiological stimuli. Recent discoveries are sharpening our understanding of the diverse functions and structural organization of different integrin heterodimers and their molecular partners, highlighting their critical roles in cellular processes.