Engineered In Vitro Platforms for Mechanochemical Control of Cell Migration.

Abstract

Cell migration in confined environments follows distinct mechanisms compared to conventional 2D migration. By using in vitro models and incorporating extracellular cues from the tissue microenvironment, we can gain deeper insights into the complexities of cell migration. In this work, we explore various engineered in vitro models to study cell migration. We delve into biophysical tools, such as traction force microscopy, to understand how cells generate forces in response to their surroundings. We highlight the use of novel optogenetic tools for precise, spatiotemporal control of protein expression at the cellular level. Lastly, we examine emerging therapeutic strategies designed to target abnormal cell migration.