vinculin binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to vinculin, a protein found in muscle, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells that binds actin and appears to mediate attachment of actin filaments to integral proteins of the plasma membrane. [ISBN:0721662544]

Vinculin binding is a crucial molecular interaction that plays a pivotal role in cell adhesion, migration, and mechanotransduction. Vinculin, an actin-binding protein, acts as a molecular linker connecting the actin cytoskeleton to cell-matrix adhesion sites, known as focal adhesions. These adhesions are essential for cell stability, migration, and response to mechanical stimuli.

Vinculin exists in two conformations: an inactive, closed conformation and an active, open conformation. In its closed conformation, vinculin's head domain, which contains the vinculin-binding site, is masked by its tail domain. The binding of talin, a key adaptor protein in focal adhesions, to the vinculin tail domain induces a conformational change, exposing the vinculin-binding site.

This exposed site then interacts with various proteins, including:

* **Actin:** Vinculin binds to F-actin, contributing to the organization and stability of the actin cytoskeleton.
* **α-actinin:** This interaction further strengthens the connection between vinculin and the actin cytoskeleton.
* **Integrins:** Vinculin interacts with the cytoplasmic tails of integrins, transmembrane receptors that link the extracellular matrix to the cytoskeleton.
* **Other focal adhesion proteins:** Vinculin also interacts with various other focal adhesion proteins, such as paxillin, p130Cas, and tensin, contributing to the assembly and regulation of these adhesion sites.

The binding of vinculin to these proteins serves multiple functions:

* **Regulation of adhesion strength:** By linking the actin cytoskeleton to integrins, vinculin contributes to the formation and strengthening of cell-matrix adhesions, ensuring cell stability and integrity.
* **Modulation of cell migration:** Vinculin binding allows for the dynamic assembly and disassembly of focal adhesions, facilitating cell migration.
* **Transmission of mechanical signals:** Vinculin acts as a mechanotransducer, transmitting mechanical forces from the extracellular matrix to the cytoskeleton, influencing cell behavior in response to external stimuli.

In summary, vinculin binding plays a crucial role in cell adhesion, migration, and mechanotransduction by acting as a molecular bridge between the actin cytoskeleton and cell-matrix adhesion sites. Its interaction with various proteins allows for the regulation of adhesion strength, modulation of cell migration, and transmission of mechanical signals, contributing to the overall cellular response to its environment.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)