Not only proteins: The role of compressed sugars in cell migration

<div style="direction: ltr;">Cells use adhesion complexes to bind to the extracellular matrix. Extending up to tens of nanometers from the membrane, these molecular adhesions are often embedded within the much thicker hyaluronan-rich glycocalyx, a bulky polymeric structure comprised of high molecular weight membrane-associated hyaluronan chains. Our theoretical estimates indicate that a significant mechanical loading of adhesion bonds arises from compressed glycocalyx at the cell- extracellular matrix interface. In this work, we study three cell types to address the mechanics of cell adhesion in the presence of hyaluronan-rich glycocalyx, with a focus on its implications for cell migration. Measurements of the interfacial gap at the cell substratum, glycocalyx-dependent cell adhesion strength and migration speed are combined with quantification of adhesions and characterization of their spatial organization within the glycocalyx. Together, these data provide strong evidence for a mechanical role of the glycocalyx in mediating cell adhesion and migration.</div>