Fig. 6

Model of compression-promoted invasive phenotype of MDA-MB-231 cells and associated signaling pathways. Together, vertical mechanical compression might increase the lateral plasma membrane tension and activate Piezo1 channels. The opening of Piezo1 mediates the influx of calcium and evokes the downstream signaling pathways such as Src. These activated signaling molecules promote actin protrusions at the ventral side of cells, which in turn mediate enhanced matrix degradation and cell invasion