We studied early changes in gene expression during fibroblast contraction of stressed collagen matrices. The level of c-fos mRNA increased dramatically and peaked 50 to 60 min after matrix contraction was initiated. This response did not require serum and could not be accounted for simply by disruption of the actin cytoskeleton. Increased c-fos mRNA levels required Ca2+ influx but not the cyclic AMP or extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK 1/2) signaling pathways, both of which are activated when fibroblasts contract stressed collagen matrices. The levels of two other immediate-early genes, fosb and c-jun, also increased transiently after fibroblast contraction, whereas the levels of fra-1, fra-2, c-myc, and the transcription factor NF-kappaB remained the same, indicating that fibroblast contraction caused changes in a selective group of genes. The increase in c-fos mRNA during contraction of stressed collagen matrices may reflect a unique role for c-fos in mechanoregulated events at the end of wound repair.