Mechanical regulation of cell-cycle progression and division

Cell-cycle progression and division are fundamental biological processes in animal cells, and their biochemical regulation has been extensively studied. An emerging body of work has revealed how mechanical interactions of cells with their microenvironment in tissues, including with the extracellular matrix (ECM) and neighboring cells, also plays a crucial role in regulating cell-cycle progression and division. We review recent work on how cells interpret physical cues and alter their mechanics to promote cell-cycle progression and initiate cell division, and then on how dividing cells generate forces on their surrounding microenvironment to successfully divide. Finally, the article ends by discussing how force generation during division potentially contributes to larger tissue-scale processes involved in development and homeostasis.

Automated summary

Cell-cycle progression and division in animal cells are regulated not only by biochemical factors, but also by mechanical interactions with the microenvironment. This review summarizes recent research on how cells interpret physical cues to promote cell-cycle progression and initiate cell division, as well as how dividing cells generate forces to successfully divide. Additionally, it discusses the potential contribution of force generation during division to larger tissue-scale processes involved in development and homeostasis.