Tensins - emerging insights into their domain functions, biological roles and disease relevance

Tensins are a family of focal adhesion proteins consisting of four members in mammals (TNS1, TNS2, TNS3 and TNS4). Their multiple domains and activities contribute to the molecular linkage between the extracellular matrix and cytoskeletal networks, as well as mediating signal transduction pathways, leading to a variety of physiological processes, including cell proliferation, attachment, migration and mechanical sensing in a cell. Tensins are required for maintaining normal tissue structures and functions, especially in the kidney and heart, as well as in muscle regeneration, in animals. This Review discusses our current understanding of the domain functions and biological roles of tensins in cells and mice, as well as highlighting their relevance to human diseases.

Automated summary

Tensins are a family of focal adhesion proteins consisting of four members in mammals, playing important roles in the molecular linkage between the extracellular matrix and cytoskeletal networks, mediating signal transduction pathways, and regulating various physiological processes in cells. They are essential for maintaining normal tissue structures and functions, especially in the kidney and heart, as well as in muscle regeneration in animals. This review discusses the domain functions and biological roles of tensins in cells and mice, emphasizing their relevance to human diseases.