The Force Is with Us.

The article discusses two research papers that further understanding of the molecular basis for cellular mechanisms. The first of these is mechanosensitive adhesions that are mediated by membrane proteins known as integrins and are believed to underlie many areas relevant to human physiology and disease. The second is the strengthening of these adhesions through forces that are applied by either the cells' cytoskeleton or from external sources and trigger a variety of intracellular signals. One paper provides evidence that the fibronectin-binding integrin undergoes a conformational transition. The other focuses on the properties of talin.