Discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1): an emerged novel mechanosensor

Cell behavior is intricately influenced by the physical forces and mechanical properties of the cells and their microenvironment. Mechanotransduction plays crucial roles in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis and the development of diseases, yet the precise identity of key mechanosensory molecules and structures has been elusive. Recently, the discoidin domain receptor tyrosine kinase 1 (DDR1) has emerged as a novel mechanosensor that responds to mechanical cues such as extracellular matrix stiffness, shear stress, and cytoskeletal tension. In this review, we provide updated insights into DDR1 mechanosensing and propose future research directions. The identification of mechanosensors such as DDR1 holds promise for unlocking novel approaches for drug development to enable precision therapies that target a spectrum of diseases by modulating the mechanotransduction pathways.