Robust quantification of cellular mechanics using optical tweezers.

ABSTRACT: The mechanical properties of cells are closely related to function and play a crucial role in many cellular processes, including migration, differentiation, and cell fate determination. Numerous methods have been developed to assess cell mechanics under various conditions, but they often lack accuracy on biologically relevant piconewton-range forces or have limited control over the applied force. Here, we present a straightforward approach for using optically trapped polystyrene beads to accurately apply piconewton-range forces to adherent and suspended cells. We precisely apply a constant force to cells by means of a force-feedback system, allowing for quantification of deformation, cell stiffness, and creep response from a single measurement. Using drug-induced perturbations of the cytos

SUBMITTER: Rodenburg WS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11910095 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature