Rohan Samarakoon and Paul J. Higgins
Center for Cell Biology and Cancer Research Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA

Series: Protein Biochemistry, Synthesis, Structure and Cellular Functions
BISAC: MED107000

Architectural constraints imposed by the three major, highly interactive, cytoskeletal networks (consisting of the microtubule, microfilament and intermediate filament systems), cell-to-cell junctional complexes, integrin-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and external forces are significant determinants of cell structure/function. This is, perhaps, best evident in the vascular compartment which is constantly subjected to a continuum of hemodynamic stimuli that alter microfilament and microtubule organization and the associated signaling pathways, several elements of which are now known to be “hard-wired” to the cytoskeleton. Dissection of pathways and mechanisms underlying vascular cell shape-deformation responses may lead to the identification of new, translationally-relevant, targets for the treatment of vascular disorders. (Imprint: Nova)