PROM microscopy analyses cellular focal adhesion dynamics

European Pharmaceutical Review (June 4) -- U. of I. researchers have developed a new form of microscopy that allows them to observe the formation and evolution of cell membrane focal adhesions. Focal adhesions are large specialized proteins that are located in the area where a cell membrane meets the extracellular matrix, a collection of molecules surrounding the cells that provide support and regulate micromechanical signals to the cells. Examining focal adhesions is one of the key elements to understanding how a cell proliferates, differentiates and migrates – which can help in the treatment of diseases like cancer.