Unbiased High-Precision Cell Mechanical Measurements with Microconstrictions.

ABSTRACT: We describe a quantitative, high-precision, high-throughput method for measuring the mechanical properties of cells in suspension with a microfluidic device, and for relating cell mechanical responses to protein expression levels. Using a high-speed (750 fps) charge-coupled device camera, we measure the driving pressure Δp, maximum cell deformation ε_max, and entry time t_entry of cells in an array of microconstrictions. From these measurements, we estimate population averages of elastic modulus E and fluidity β (the power-law exponent of the cell deformation in response to a step change in pressure). We find that cell elasticity increases with increasing strain ε_max according to E ∼ ε_max, and with increasing pressure according to E ∼ Δp. Variable

SUBMITTER: Lange JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5389962 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature