Imaging single integrin tensions in filopodia

Filopodia are narrow cell extensions which are important for various cellular and physiological processes. Integrins mediate filopodia adhesion and likely transmit adhesive force to regulate filopodia formation and functions, but the force was extremely weak to study and remained poorly understood. Using integrative tension sensor (ITS), we imaged filopodia adhesive force in live cells with single molecular tension sensitivity.