Study on the Cell Mechanics of MDCK Cells by Elastic Micro-pillars Arrays

Abstract

The cellular force is one of the most important parameters of cellular physiological behavior and mechanical interactions between the cell and its environment which could regulate the cell migration, contractility and gene expression. In order to evidence the characteristics of the physiology and cellular mechanics of the epithelial cells, therefore, we use the micro-pillars arrays (MPAs) to measure the traction force of the Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. When MDCK cells adhere on the different geometry of MPAs, the cell will pull MPAs and cause the pillars displacement due to the traction force. Furthermore, the cellular image and the displacement of the pillars could be analyzed by optic microscope system, and could be evaluated the mechanical interactions between the cells and MPAs. Therefore, this method might help us understand the cellular mechanics and physiological phenomenon between the cells and underlying substrates.