Tenascin-C induces phenotypic changes in fibroblasts to myofibroblasts with high contractility through the integrin αvβ1/TGF-β/SMAD signaling axis in human breast cancer

Tenascin-C (TNC) is strongly expressed by fibroblasts and cancer cells in breast cancer. To assess the effects of TNC on stromal formation, we examined phenotypic changes in human mammary fibroblasts (HMFs) treated with TNC. The addition of TNC significantly up-regulated α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and calponin. TNC increased the number of α-SMA- and/or calponin-positive cells with well-developed stress fibers in immunofluorescence, which enhanced contractile ability in collagen gel contraction.
Source: American Journal of Pathology - Category: Pathology Authors: Tags: Regular Article Source Type: research