This study helps to elucidate how ColVI and Dcn within the pericellular matrix (PCM) of differentiating hMSCs directly impacts dynamic cytoskeletal response to load, and demonstrates an important role for the PCM in mechanotransduction during chondrogenesis. Mechanosignaling events in differentiating human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are dependent on their temporally changing micromechanical environment and their dynamic cytoskeleton. During chondrogenic differentiation, hMSCs develop a matrix composed of type VI collagen (ColVI) and proteoglycans such as decorin (Dcn). We have previously demonstrated that this developing PCM is important in cellular mechanotransduction. The aim of this study was to determine the functional roles of ColVI and Dcn in modulating load-induced changes in the organization of vimentin intermediate filaments (VIF), actin microfilaments (AM), and vinculin.Summary
Introduction
