Mechanisms controlling the mechanical properties of the nuclei

The mechanical properties of the nucleus influence different cellular and nuclear functions and have relevant implications for several human diseases. The nucleus protects genetic information while acting as a mechano-sensory hub in response to internal and external forces. Cells have evolved mechano-transduction signaling to respond to physical cellular and nuclear perturbations and adopted a multitude of molecular pathways to maintain nuclear shape stability and prevent morphological abnormalities of the nucleus. Here we describe those key biological processes that control nuclear mechanics and discuss emerging perspectives on the mechanobiology of the nucleus as a diagnostic tool and clinical target.

Automated summary

The mechanical properties of the nucleus play a crucial role in cellular and nuclear functions, as well as human diseases. The nucleus acts as a protective barrier for genetic information and a mechano-sensory hub in response to internal and external forces. Cells have developed mechano-transduction signaling pathways to maintain nuclear shape stability and prevent morphological abnormalities. The mechanobiology of the nucleus is emerging as a potential diagnostic tool and clinical target.