Microactuator device for integrated measurement of epithelium mechanics

作者：Mukundan Vikram; Nelson W James; Pruitt Beth L^*

来源：Biomedical Microdevices, 2013, 15(1): 117-123.

DOI：10.1007/s10544-012-9693-0

• Electrostatic actuator
• Force measurement
• Epithelium
• Cell mechanics

Mechanical forces are among important factors that drive cellular function and organization. We present a microfabricated device with on-chip actuation for mechanical testing of single cells. An integrated immersible electrostatic actuator system is demonstrated that applies calibrated forces to cells. We conduct stretching experiments by directly applying forces to epithelial cells adhered to device surfaces functionalized with collagen. We measure mechanical properties including stiffness, hysteresis and visco-elasticity of adherent cells.

• 出版日期2013-2