The paper investigates how actin-membrane interface stress regulates Arp2/3-branched actin density during lamellipodial protrusion in response to extracellular conditions.

bioRxiv · Sep 20, 2026 · PreprintCell Biology

Quantitative analysis of fibroblast migration reveals migratory states characterized by force generation, cell shape and motion

Elizabeth Mae Davis, Max A. Hockenberry, Mitchell T. Butler, Harrison H. Truscott, Noah Shaul, James E. Bear, Timothy C. Elston

The paper quantifies fibroblast migration by analyzing force generation, cell shape, and motion, identifying discrete migratory states that are influenced by cytoskeletal organization.

bioRxiv · May 31, 2026 · PreprintCell Biology

Nuclear SUN2 coordinates endothelial cell-matrix interactions to regulate blood vessel homeostasis and barrier function

Pauline Bougaran, Danielle B. Buglak, Alexandra E. Neal, Mitesh Rathod, Michaelanthony T. Gore, Max A. Hockenberry, Aryan A. Hama Amin, Natalie T. Tanke, Morgan Oatley, Wesley R. Legant, Ziqing Liu, James E. Bear, William J. Polacheck, Victoria L. Bautch

This study shows that SUN2 in the nucleus regulates endothelial cell-matrix interactions, affecting vascular homeostasis and barrier function through microtubule and matrix metalloprotease mechanisms.

bioRxiv · May 20, 2026 · PreprintCell Biology

Measurement of cellular traction forces during confined migration

Max A. Hockenberry, Andrew J. Ulmer, Johann L. Rapp, Harrison H. Truscott, Frank A. Leibfarth, James E. Bear, Wesley R. Legant

This study measures cellular traction forces during confined migration through tunable microscale geometries, revealing that softer constrictions cause greater nuclear deformation due to internal contractile forces.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences · Nov 25, 2025Peer-reviewedBiophysics