Oncogenic Ras-transformed human fibroblasts exhibit differential changes in contraction and migration in 3D collagen matrices

Gustavo C. Menezes, Miguel Miron-Mendoza, Chin Han Ho, Hongmei Jiang, Frederick Grinnell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

22 Scopus citations

Abstract

Tractional force exerted by tissue cells in 3D collagen matrices can be utilized for matrix remodeling or cell migration. The interrelationship between these motile processes is not well understood. The current studies were carried out to test the consequences of oncogenic Ras (H-RasV12) transformation on human fibroblast contraction and migration in 3D collagen matrices. Beginning with hTERT-immortalized cells, we prepared fibroblasts stably transformed with E6/E7 and with the combination HPV16 E6/E7 and H-RasV12. Oncogenic Ras-transformed cells lost contact inhibition of cell growth, formed colonies in soft agar and were unable to make adherens junctions. We observed no changes in the extent or growth factor dependence of collagen matrix contraction (floating or stress-relaxation) by oncogenic Ras-transformed cells. On the other hand, transformed cells in nested collagen matrices lost not only growth factor selectivity, but also cell-matrix density-dependent inhibition of migration. These findings demonstrate differential regulation of collagen matrix contraction and cell migration in 3D collagen matrices.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3081-3091
Number of pages11
JournalExperimental Cell Research
Volume314
Issue number16
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 2008

Keywords

  • Adherens junctions
  • Collagen
  • Contraction
  • Fibroblast
  • Mechanoregulation
  • Migration
  • Oncogenic Ras

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cell Biology

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