Biophysical and structural studies reveal how low piconewton forces across actin enhance binding by the critical cell-cell adhesion protein α-catenin versus its force insensitive homolog vinculin.

A quantitative understanding of molecular tension sensor function enables the production of unique sensors with desired mechanical properties as well as the ability to distinguish between protein force and protein deformation in mechanosensitive processes.

The structure of the mechanosensitive channel MscS embedded in a lipid bilayer redefines the nature, location and importance of lipid–protein interactions in the gating of mechanosensitive channels.

Force generation by kinesin motor proteins requires formation of both a 2-stranded cover-neck bundle and an asparagine-based latch for transport of membrane-bound cargoes in cells.

Computational modeling and molecular-biological analysis reveal the role of mechanical force and downstream Yap signaling in growth control during the development and regeneration of sensory epithelium of the inner ear.

Binding of two macromolecular complexes allows kinetochores to capture force produced by the depolymerising ends of microtubules, allowing chromosomes to be transmitted from a mother cell to its two daughters.

An actin-based Brownian Ratchet enables branched actin networks to generate pushing forces, while a capping protein-based Brownian Ratchet provides force feedback that enables these networks to adapt their architecture in response to changing loads.

A single-molecule approach is able to discriminate the redundant binding conformations of cellulosomal dockerin based on differences in their mechanical properties.

The helical rod structure and dynamic spring-like properties of the type 1 pilus are evolutionarily fine-tuned for functioning in host-pathogen interactions during urinary tract infection and gut colonization.

Optogenetic reconstitution reveals core functional modules and architecture of the cortical force-generating machinery in human cells.