Open AccessComponents and Mechanisms of Nuclear Mechanotransduction
Author(s) -
Philipp Niethammer
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
annual review of cell and developmental biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 11.094
H-Index - 220
eISSN - 1530-8995
pISSN - 1081-0706
DOI - 10.1146/annurev-cellbio-120319-030049
Subject(s) - mechanotransduction , biology , microbiology and biotechnology , nucleus , paracrine signalling , nuclear lamina , cell nucleus , organelle , lamin , cell fate determination , nuclear transport , nuclear protein , biophysics , transcription factor , gene , genetics , receptor
The cell nucleus is best known as the container of the genome. Its envelope provides a barrier for passive macromolecule diffusion, which enhances the control of gene expression. As its largest and stiffest organelle, the nucleus also defines the minimal space requirements of a cell. Internal or external pressures that deform a cell to its physical limits cause a corresponding nuclear deformation. Evidence is consolidating that the nucleus, in addition to its genetic functions, serves as a physical sensing device for critical cell body deformation. Nuclear mechanotransduction allows cells to adapt their acute behaviors, mechanical stability, paracrine signaling, and fate to their physical surroundings. This review summarizes the basic chemical and mechanical properties of nuclear components, and how these properties are thought to be utilized for mechanosensing.