Filamentous network mechanics and active contractility determine cell and tissue shape.

ABSTRACT: For both cells and tissues, shape is closely correlated with function presumably via geometry-dependent distribution of tension. In this study, we identify common shape determinants spanning cell and tissue scales. For cells whose sites of adhesion are restricted to small adhesive islands on a micropatterned substrate, shape resembles a sequence of inward-curved circular arcs. The same shape is observed for fibroblast-populated collagen gels that are pinned to a flat substrate. Quantitative image analysis reveals that, in both cases, arc radii increase with the spanning distance between the pinning points. Although the Laplace law for interfaces under tension predicts circular arcs, it cannot explain the observed dependence on the spanning distance. Computer simulations and theoretical mod

SUBMITTER: Bischofs IB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2547424 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature