FIGURE 8:

Matrix apparent microelasticity determines physical, molecular, and functional cell contractile phenotypes. Cells on stiff matrices or soft ones that are sufficiently thin and are attached to rigid surfaces generate elevated contractile forces that enhance lamin-A,C expression at the nuclear envelope. Acting as a mechano-sensor, lamin-A,C directs myosin-IIA expression and suppression of LBR. Reduction in lamin-A,C, for example in soft environments, enables LBR translocation at the nuclear envelope. Together, cells obtain a contractile phenotype in accordance with matrix mechanics to direct differentiation programs of soft or stiff tissue lineages.