Effect of gel re‐organization and tensional forces on α2β1 integrin levels in dermal fibroblasts

Mechanical forces are known to play an important role in regulating cell function in a wide range of biological systems. This is of particular relevance to dermal fibroblast function, given that the skin is known to be held under an intrinsic natural tension. To understand more about the generation of force by dermal fibroblasts and their ability to respond to changes in it, we have studied the role of the β1 integrin receptors expressed by dermal fibroblasts in their ability to generate tensional forces within a collagen type I matrix and the effect of altered tensional force on integrin expression by dermal fibroblasts.  Using a purpose‐built culture force monitor, function‐blocking antibodies directed towards the β1 receptors dramatically reduced the tensional forces generated by dermal fibroblasts in a 3D collagen I matrix. However, the specific involvement of α1 or α2 subunits could not be demonstrated.  Analysis of cellular response demonstrated that cells isolated from contracting collagen gels expressed fourfold higher levels of α2 mRNA than cells isolated from fully restrained gels. The levels of β1 messenger RNA were relatively unaffected by reductions in force. Cells exposed to single reductions in force, however, did not exhibit alterations in either α1 or β1 mRNA levels. We propose, therefore that α2β1 integrin receptor levels in dermal fibroblasts are not altered in response to single reductions of gel tension, but do change following a continual change in force and associated matrix re‐organization