Fig. 3.

Changes to the IF cytoskeleton under external force. Mechanical stretch induces alignment of the IF network. Neonatal epidermal keratinocytes were incubated with 1.2 mM Ca²⁺-containing medium overnight to induce the formation of robust cell–cell junctions. Cell monolayers were then subjected to cyclical stretch for 24 h, fixed, and stained for keratin 14 to demonstrate reorganization of the IF cytoskeleton. Control cells were not stretched. Images supplied by the laboratory of K.J.G. A schematic representation of the reorganization of the IF cytoskeleton that occurs upon application of mechanical stimulation is also shown.