Progress on the role of RhoGTPase in mammalian cell adaptation to microgravity-related conditions

A growing number of studies are revealing that mammalian cells reorganize their cytoskeleton when exposed to microgravity. Most of the structural changes observed on flown cells can be explained by modulation of RhoGTPases, which are mechanosensitive switches responsible for cytoskeletal dynamics control. This review outlines the general principles defining cell sensitivity to gravitational stresses. In order to enhance our understanding of cell adaptation to microgravity-related conditions, we discuss what is known about changes in cell shape, nucleus, and focal adhesions and try to reveal their relationship with specific RhoGTPase activities.