Mechano-epigenetic regulation of extracellular matrix homeostasis via Yap and Taz
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ABSTRACT: Cells integrate mechanical cues to direct fate specification to maintain tissue function and homeostasis. While disruption of these cues is known to lead to aberrant cell behavior and chronic diseases (e.g. tendinopathies), the underlying mechanisms by which mechanical signals maintain cell function is not well understood. Here, we show using a novel model of tendon de-tensioning that loss of tensile cues in vivo acutely changes nuclear morphology, positioning, and expression of catabolic gene programs. Using paired ATAC/RNAseq, we further identify that a loss of cellular tension rapidly reduces chromatin accessibility in the vicinity of Yap/Taz genomic targets while also increasing expression of genes involved in matrix catabolism. Overexpression of Yap resulted in a reduction of chromatin accessibility at these matrix catabolic genes, and their transcript levels. Concordantly, depletion of Yap/Taz elevated their expression. Finally, we demonstrate that overexpression of Yap not only prevents the induction of a broad catabolic program following a loss of cellular tension, but also preserves the underlying chromatin state from force induced alterations. Taken together, these results provide novel mechanistic details by which mechanical signals regulate tendon cell function to preserve matrix homeostasis through a Yap/Taz axis.
ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus
PROVIDER: GSE207896 | GEO | 2022/07/14
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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