Analysis of molecular mechanim for sensing stiffness of extracellular matrix

2014 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 24380185
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
• Allocation Type: Partial Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Applied molecular and cellular biology
• Research Institution: Kyoto University
• Principal Investigator: KIOKA Noriyuki 京都大学, (連合)農学研究科(研究院), 准教授 (90234179)
• Co-Investigator(Renkei-kenkyūsha): 原田 伊知郎 東京工業大学, 生命理工学研究科, 助教 (00361759) ; 木村 泰久 京都大学, 大学院農学研究科, 助教 (10415143)
• Project Period (FY): 2012-04-01 – 2015-03-31
• Keywords: 細胞外マトリックス / コラーゲン / メカノバイオロジー / がん / 接着斑

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Recent evidences have shown that stiffness of extracellular matrix(ECM) plays a critical role in regulating cell behaviors. Our research has clarified that an interaction of a focal adhesion protein vinculin with another focal adhesion protein vinexin works as a sensor for ECM stiffness. In addition, we have also found that Dlg5, a vinexin-binding protein, regulates cell migration and invasion of prostate cancer cell line via Akt-Girdin pathway. These observations shed light on mechanisms for sensing ECM stiffness and directing cell behaviors.

Free Research Field

応用細胞生物学