Single cell micro-pillar-based characterization of endothelial and fibroblast cell mechanics

Abstract

Mechanotransduction, the ability of cells to sense and respond to the mechanical cues from their microenvironment, plays an important role in numerous cellular processes, ranging from cell migration to differentiation. Several techniques have been developed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of mechanotransduction, in particular, force measurement-based techniques. However, we still lack basic single cell quantitative comparison on the mechanical properties of commonly used cell types, such as endothelial and fibroblast cells. Such information is critical to provide a precedent for studying complex tissues and organs that consist of various cell types. In this short communication, we report on the mechanical characterization of the commonly used endothelial and fibroblast cells at the single cell level. Using a micropillar-based assay, we measured the traction force profiles of these cells. Our study showcases differences between the two cell types in their traction force distribution and morphology. The results reported can be used as a reference and to lay the groundwork for future analysis of numerous disease models involving these cells.