Fig. 3.

An ECM-integrin-talin-actin clutch orchestrates cell morphology and mobility. a. When the stiffness of the ECM does not reach the required threshold, the extracellular part of integrins does not engage with the ECM. Myosin maintains the pulling on actin while talin folds. With the cytoskeleton contracting, the mobility of the cell is reduced. b. When the stiffness of the ECM reaches the threshold required for integrins engagement, talin unfolds and myosin discharges actin depending on RhoA/ROCK. With the engagement of integrins and ECM, a force aiding cell protrusion is generated by cell-ECM adhesion. The cell presents a spreading shape with increased mobility. Created with BioRender.com.