Bidirectional signaling between the cytoskeleton and integrins

Clustering of integrins into focal adhesions and focal complexes is regulat ed by the actin cytoskeleton. In turn, actin dynamics are governed by Rho f amily GTPases, Integrin-mediated adhesion activates these GTPases, triggeri ng assembly of filopodia, lamellipodia and stress fibers. In the past few y ears, signaling pathways have begun to be identified that promote focal adh esion disassembly and integrin dispersal, Many of these pathways result in decreased myosin-mediated cell contractility.