Consider two cells attached to each other via adherens junctions. The forces generated by the actin cytoskeleton in one cell …
A) are dependent on myosin activity.
B) are normally balanced by similar forces in the neighboring cell.
C) can strengthen the adherens junction by unfolding catenin proteins.
D) All of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Adherens junctions are subjected to pulling forces generated by the attached contractile bundles of actin filaments and non-muscle myosin II. The protein α-catenin can be stretched to an extended conformation by this force, recruiting more actin to the junction to strengthen it. Through such mechanotransduction mechanisms, pulling on a junction in one cell increases the contractile force generated in the attached cell.

Consider Two Cells Attached to Each Other Via Adherens Junctions