A novel method for sensor-based quantification of single/multi-cellular traction dynamics and remodeling in 3D matrices
Published in Science Advances, 2021
Cells in vivo generate mechanical traction on the surrounding 3D extracellular matrix (ECM) and neighboring cells.Such traction and biochemical cues may remodel the matrix, e.g., increase stiffness, which, in turn, influences cellfunctions and forces. This dynamic reciprocity mediates development and tumorigenesis. Currently, there is nomethod available to directly quantify single-cell forces and matrix remodeling in 3D. Here, we introduce a methodto fulfill this long-standing need. We developed a high-resolution microfabricated sensor that hosts a 3D cell-ECMtissue formed by self-assembly. This sensor measures cell forces and tissue stiffness and can apply mechanicalstimulation to the tissue. We measured single and multicellular force dynamics of fibroblasts (3T3), human colon(FET) and lung (A549) cancer cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF05) with 1-nN resolution. Single cellsshow notable force fluctuations in 3D. FET/CAF coculture system, mimicking cancer tumor microenvironment,increased tissue stiffness by three times within 24 hours.
Recommended citation: B. Emon, Z. Li, M.S.H. Joy, U. Doha, F. Kosari, & M.T.A. Saif, “A novel method for sensor-based quantification of single/multi-cellular traction dynamics and remodeling in 3D matrices”, Science Advances, 7 (15), eabf2629, https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.abf2629 (2021).
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