Fig. 8: Model of how T-Plastin promotes ECM gap bridging.
From: T-Plastin reinforces membrane protrusions to bridge matrix gaps during cell migration
Left, T-Plastin strengthens and extends the protrusive actin network between nascent adhesions at the leading edge and mature focal adhesions further back in the lamellum. This reinforcement facilitates a cell’s ability to protrude across gaps in the ECM. Right, in the absence of T-Plastin cells are unable to overcome the opposing force of membrane tension, the protrusive actin network becomes reduced in size, and cells exhibit an inability to protrude across ECM gaps.
