Cross talk between focal adhesion kinase and cadherins: Role in regulating endothelial barrier function

A layer of endothelial cells attached to their underlying matrices by complex transmembrane structures termed focal adhesion (FA) proteins maintains the barrier property of microvascular endothelium. FAs sense the physical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and organize the cytoskeleton accordingly. The close association of adherens junction (AJ) protein, cadherin, with the cytoskeleton is known to be essential in coordinating the appropriate mechanical properties to cell–cell contacts. Recently, it has become clear that a crosstalk exists between focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and cadherin that regulates signaling at intercellular endothelial junctions. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding of the dynamic regulation of the molecular connections between FAK and the cadherin complex and cadherin–catenin–actin interaction-dependent changes as well as the role of small GTPases in endothelial barrier regulation. This review also discusses how a signaling network regulates a range of cellular processes important for barrier function and diseases.

► FAK and cadherin signaling coordinates appropriate changes at the cell–cell contact.
► Cadherin organization and endothelial barrier function.
► Cadherin–catenin–actin interactions are in question.
► The role of small GTpases in the FAK and cadherin mediated cross talk.
► The signaling molecules between FAK and cadherin cross talk will be a key focus of future.