eIf2α-regulated translation modulates the early adhesion of mesenchymal-like cells

Abstract

Cellular invasion is a complex process that requires several interdependent biological mechanisms, which are initiated by changes in adhesion that establish a morphology favorable for migration. Hence, the regulation of adhesion potential is a rate-limiting step in metastasis. Our previous work revealed that de novo translation is necessary to regulate the adhesion of mesenchymal-like cells; however, the underlying translational regulatory mechanism and the identity of newly synthesized proteins needed for the adhesion process remain unidentified. Here, we identify a mechanotransduction pathway linking force-mediated protein unfolding to translational reprogramming via the activation of the integrated stress response (ISR). Specifically, we demonstrate that phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha (eIF2) during early adhesion events leads to selective translation of mRNAs encoding proteins critical for adhesion complex formation, mechanosensing, and contractility. These findings uncover a mechanosensitive translational control axis that links intracellular force generation to cell adhesion and stress adaptation, with implications for understanding mesenchymal cell adhesion and morphological behavior