Objective: This study aims to explore the function of Integrin-β/FAK in the mechanical signal transduction and the connection with downstream ERK signal pathways.
Methods: Human osteosarcoma MG63 cell lines were used in this study. The effects of mechanical strain on the Integrin-β₁ expression, FAK and ERK signal pathway in Human osteosarcoma MG63 cells were detected using RT-PCR and Western-blotting methods. The localization of FAK in Human osteosarcoma MG63 cells were determined using immunofluorescent method. The interaction between Integrin-β₁ and FAK were detected by using co-immunoprecipitation method.
Results: The expression of Integrin-β₁ shows a notable bimodel distribution, mechanical strain stimulation can promote Integrin-β₁ expression and the phosphorylation of FAK and ERK, mechanical strain activated FAK and ERK mediated by Integrin-β₁.
Conclusion: Integrin-β₁ may play an important role in osteoblast proliferation differentiation process, it might feel external strain stimulation through ECM composition and makes FAK phosphated through the interaction with FAK, thus causing a series of activation of signal molecules. Finally it reduces MAPK (ERK) activation and cellular responses to finish mechanical signal transduction.
Keywords: ERK signal pathway; Integrin-β; focal adhesion kinase (FAK); human osteosarcoma MG63 cells; mechanical stimulation.