@article {988986,
	title = {Force interacts with macromolecular structure in activation of TGF-β},
	journal = {Nature},
	volume = {542},
	number = {7639},
	year = {2017},
	month = {2017 Feb 02},
	pages = {55-59},
	abstract = {Integrins are adhesion receptors that transmit force across the plasma membrane between extracellular ligands and the actin cytoskeleton. In activation of the transforming growth factor-β1 precursor (pro-TGF-β1), integrins bind to the prodomain, apply force, and release the TGF-β growth factor. However, we know little about how integrins bind macromolecular ligands in the extracellular matrix or transmit force to them. Here we show how integrin αVβ6 binds pro-TGF-β1 in an orientation biologically relevant for force-dependent release of TGF-β from latency. The conformation of the prodomain integrin-binding motif differs in the presence and absence of integrin binding; differences extend well outside the interface and illustrate how integrins can remodel extracellular matrix. Remodelled residues outside the interface stabilize the integrin-bound conformation, adopt a conformation similar to earlier-evolving family members, and show how macromolecular components outside the binding motif contribute to integrin recognition. Regions in and outside the highly interdigitated interface stabilize a specific integrin/pro-TGF-β orientation that defines the pathway through these macromolecules which actin-cytoskeleton-generated tensile force takes when applied through the integrin β-subunit. Simulations of force-dependent activation of TGF-β demonstrate evolutionary specializations for force application through the TGF-β prodomain and through the β- and not α-subunit of the integrin.},
	issn = {1476-4687},
	doi = {10.1038/nature21035},
	author = {Dong, Xianchi and Zhao, Bo and Iacob, Roxana E and Zhu, Jianghai and Koksal, Adem C and Lu, Chafen and Engen, John R and Springer, Timothy A.}
}
