The regulation of traction force in relation to cell shape and focal adhesions.

ABSTRACT: Mechanical forces provide critical inputs for proper cellular functions. The interplay between the generation of, and response to, mechanical forces regulate such cellular processes as differentiation, proliferation, and migration. We postulate that adherent cells respond to a number of physical and topographical factors, including cell size and shape, by detecting the magnitude and/or distribution of traction forces under different conditions. To address this possibility we introduce a new simple method for precise micropatterning of hydrogels, and then apply the technique to systematically investigate the relationship between cell geometry, focal adhesions, and traction forces in cells with a series of spread areas and aspect ratios. Contrary to previous findings, we find that traction f

SUBMITTER: Rape AD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3029020 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature