Fig. 2: The principles of cell migration directed by extracellular matrix stiffness.
From: Durotaxis and negative durotaxis: where should cells go?
a Cells on stiffness gradient gels sense the stiffness of the extracellular matrix through mechanosensors, such as YAP/TAZ, nucleus, and piezo1/2. b After sensing the stiffness of the extracellular substrate, cells convert extracellular physical signals into intracellular biochemical signals. YAP/TAZ localization inhibits myosin II activity through the ARHGAP29-RhoA signaling pathway. Calcineurin activates Rac1 and promotes the formation of lamellipodia. c The intracellular biochemical signal gradient directs cell migration toward the stiff end or the soft end.
