Abstract
Fibroblast cells mechanically interact with their environment through several mechanisms, including the formation of focal adhesion complexes (FACs) with adjacent ligands. A quasi-3D (Q3D) experimental device was devised to investigate chemo-mechanical stimulation of these cells. It employed a novel microscopic fixture featuring micropolymer arrays positioned just above a cellular monolayer, enabling mechanical stimulation through dorsal attachment to FACs. This protocol demonstrated the ability to preserve the normal stellate morphology of fibroblasts. Live-cell imaging during mechanical stimulation revealed robust calcium elevation in cells interacting with the Q3D device. This system provides a simple alternative to existing 3D culture methods yet allows dynamic, real-time mechanical probing of cells in a physiologically significant environment as compared to optical or magnetic tweezers.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | Proceedings of the ASME Summer Bioengineering Conference, SBC2008 |
Pages | 1049-1050 |
Number of pages | 2 |
Edition | PART B |
State | Published - Dec 1 2009 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | 10th ASME Summer Bioengineering Conference, SBC2008 - Marco Island, FL, United States Duration: Jun 25 2008 → Jun 29 2008 |
Other
Other | 10th ASME Summer Bioengineering Conference, SBC2008 |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | Marco Island, FL |
Period | 6/25/08 → 6/29/08 |