Glomerular podocytes: A study of mechanical properties and mechano-chemical signaling

► Stimulation of AT1 receptors on podocytes using angiotensin II leads to the release of intracellularly stored calcium. ► Affects cell stiffness (i.e. actomyosin interaction). ► Weakens the linkage of the integrin-focal adhesion-actin cytoskeleton linkage and affects cell signaling.