Figure 6.

Schematic model for MMP24 expression promoted by extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffening. Integrins bind to ECM and induce the formation of focal adhesions, leading to actin polymerization via the activation of Rho GTPases such as Rho, Rac, and Cdc42. Rho GTPases also induce activation of myosin via activation of ROCK. Actomyosin contraction enhances activation of this integrin signaling pathway via conformational change of the proteins as mechanosensors including integrins and talin in an ECM stiffness-dependent manner. Increase in the number of actin filaments promotes YAP nuclear translocation, resulting in induction of ROCK2 and MMP24 expression via TEAD activation. MMP24 expression attenuates the progression of various types of cancers such as breast cancer, lung cancer, and renal cancer.