A. I. Barakat

Interplay of actin nematodynamics and anisotropic tension controls endothelial mechanics

The paper studies how actin dynamics and tension affect endothelial cell mechanics under pressure, showing strain-stiffening and actin-driven reorientation.

Microgroove substrates unveil topography-driven, dynamic 3D nuclear deformations

This study uses microgroove substrates to show that adherent cells exhibit dynamic 3D nuclear deformations driven by adhesion, with implications for diagnosing nuclear mechanical disorders.

A computational model of chemically and mechanically induced platelet plug formation

This paper develops a computational model to predict platelet plug formation under chemical and mechanical stimuli, showing the importance of shear gradients in thrombosis.

Distinct contact guidance mechanisms in single endothelial cells and in monolayers

This study investigates contact guidance in single endothelial cells and monolayers, finding distinct mechanisms: single cells rely on protrusion persistence, while monolayers depend on basement membrane organization.

PPP2R1A Regulates Migration Persistence through the WAVE Shell Complex

This study identifies PPP2R1A's role in migration persistence via the WAVE Shell Complex, showing its tumor suppressor function through actin regulation.

Topography-induced large-scale anti-parallel collective migration in vascular endothelium

This study shows that unconfined endothelial cell monolayers on microgrooved substrates exhibit periodic anti-parallel collective migration, driven by physical constraints on cell orientation.

Luminal Flow Actuation Generates Coupled Shear and Strain in a Microvessel-on-Chip

This paper introduces a microvessel-on-chip system that uses luminal flow actuation to generate physiologically relevant wall shear stress and circumferential strain.

Single-cell immuno-mechanics: rapid viscoelastic changes are a hallmark of early leukocyte activation.

This study shows that leukocytes become significantly stiffer and more viscous within seconds of contact with target cells, with mechanical properties evolving in parallel and maintaining a cell-type-specific ratio.