Functional validation of actin as a mechanosensor in cells

2017 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 16K18530
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Biophysics
• Research Institution: Miyakonojo National College of Technology
• Principal Investigator: Noguchi Taro 都城工業高等専門学校, その他部局等, 准教授 (90615866)
• Project Period (FY): 2016-04-01 – 2018-03-31
• Keywords: アクチン / 構造 / FRET

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Actin molecule takes multiple conformation, which may play an important role in the cell functions such as cell migration and cell division. Conformational changes of actin are speculated to be induced by external forces. Thus, atomic structure of actin subunits may act as a mechanosensor. However, in cells, conformational changes of actin filament by external force have not been shown. In this study, FRET actin, which is able to detect changes of actin structure, were introduced into PtK2 cells, and the cells pushed by glass needle. FRET intensity at the pushed site significantly increased, indicating clearly that the atomic structure of actin in cells changes in response to mechanical force.

Free Research Field

生物物理、生化学