Long-range force transmission in fibrous matrices enabled by tension-driven alignment of fibers.

ABSTRACT: Cells can sense and respond to mechanical signals over relatively long distances across fibrous extracellular matrices. Recently proposed models suggest that long-range force transmission can be attributed to the nonlinear elasticity or fibrous nature of collagen matrices, yet the mechanism whereby fibers align remains unknown. Moreover, cell shape and anisotropy of cellular contraction are not considered in existing models, although recent experiments have shown that they play crucial roles. Here, we explore all of the key factors that influence long-range force transmission in cell-populated collagen matrices: alignment of collagen fibers, responses to applied force, strain stiffening properties of the aligned fibers, aspect ratios of the cells, and the polarization of cellular contracti

SUBMITTER: Wang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4255175 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature