# Nuclear mechanobiology in confined cell migration

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how the cell nucleus responds to mechanical forces during migration through tight spaces in tissues.

## Contribution

The paper highlights the nucleus as a mechanoresponsive organelle that influences cell behavior during confined migration.

## Key findings

- The nucleus is not just a barrier but actively responds to mechanical forces during migration.
- Cytoskeletal forces and sub-nuclear structures play roles in nuclear deformation during migration.
- Understanding nuclear mechanobiology is key to explaining cell navigation in complex tissues.

## Abstract

Nuclear deformation is a central challenge for migration of cells through confined spaces in the tissue interstitium. In this paper, we review studies on the mechanical roles of the nucleus in confined cell migration. We focus on mechanical force generation by the cytoskeleton on the nuclear surface, the properties of sub-nuclear structures in the process, and functional responses of the nucleus in response to mechanical forces, all in the context of confined cell migration. An emerging theme is that the nucleus acts not only as a barrier for confined migration, but also as a mechanoresponsive organelle whose deformation feeds back to modify cell behaviors. Deciphering these complex processes will be key to understanding how cells navigate complex tissues in development, immunity, and cancer.