Oxidative stress induces cortical stiffening and cytoskeletal remodelling in pre-apoptotic cancer cells
Jalmukhambetova A. Baltabekova A. Tolebay A. Rakhimgerey N. Molnár F. Pham T.T. Burska A.N. Sarbassov D.D.
2025Shared Science Publishers OG
Cell Stress
2025#9Issue 1182 - 193 pp.
An imbalanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is linked to various aspects of cancer development, including cytoskeletal remodelling. However, the relationship between ROS, actin and cellular stiffness remains controversial. Here, we show that oxidative stress increases cortical stiffness in pre-apoptotic colon and pancreatic cancer cells via localized F-actin polymerization in the apical cortex — independent of changes in total F-actin levels. Using atomic force microscopy and flow cytometry, we demonstrate this effect across multiple ROS inducers: the combination of arsenic trioxide and D-enantiomer of vitamin C, hydrogen peroxide, and rotenone. These findings explain previously debated relationships on how ROS influence actin organization, which may affect cellular stiffness. By separating total from cortical actin effects, our study reveals a redox-sensitive mechanism that governs cytoskeletal remodelling and may impair cancer cell migration.
arsenic trioxide and D form of vitamin C , atomic force microscopy , cancer migration , cortical stiffness , F-actin , oxidative stress
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Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
National Laboratory Astana, Center for Life Sciences, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
Department of Biology
Department of Biomedical Sciences
National Laboratory Astana
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