Super-resolved visualization of single DNA-based tension sensors in cell adhesion.
Thomas SchlichthaerleCaroline LindnerRalf JungmannPublished in: Nature communications (2021)
Cell-extracellular matrix sensing plays a crucial role in cellular behavior and leads to the formation of a macromolecular protein complex called the focal adhesion. Despite their importance in cellular decision making, relatively little is known about cell-matrix interactions and the intracellular transduction of an initial ligand-receptor binding event on the single-molecule level. Here, we combine cRGD-ligand-decorated DNA tension sensors with DNA-PAINT super-resolution microscopy to study the mechanical engagement of single integrin receptors and the downstream influence on actin bundling. We uncover that integrin receptor clustering is governed by a non-random organization with complexes spaced at 20-30 nm distances. The DNA-based tension sensor and analysis framework provide powerful tools to study a multitude of receptor-ligand interactions where forces are involved in ligand-receptor binding.
Keyphrases
- single molecule
- cell adhesion
- circulating tumor
- extracellular matrix
- living cells
- single cell
- atomic force microscopy
- cell free
- binding protein
- decision making
- cell therapy
- cell migration
- photodynamic therapy
- stem cells
- mass spectrometry
- bone marrow
- high speed
- staphylococcus aureus
- quantum dots
- amino acid
- circulating tumor cells
- biofilm formation
- pseudomonas aeruginosa
- reactive oxygen species
- reduced graphene oxide
- protein protein