connective tissue cell (IMAGE) University of Münster Caption The figure shows a connective tissue cell in which the adhesion protein talin has been modified. As long as no laser light with a suitable wavelength is switched on, the cell forms normal adhesion structures, which are important for attachment to the surrounding tissue (left). Irradiation with short laser pulses leads to a rupture of the talin connection, the importance of which immediately becomes clear: without intact talin connections, the cell can no longer hold on to the underlying substrate and collapses (right). Credit AG Grashoff Usage Restrictions The image may only be used in connection with this press release and with reference to the source. License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.