Decoupling cell and matrix mechanics in engineered microtissues using magnetically actuated microcantilevers.

Zhao, Ruogang; Boudou, Thomas; Wang, Wei-Gang; Chen, Christopher S; Reich, Daniel H · Adv Mater · 2013

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

A novel bio-magnetomechanical microtissue system is described for magnetic actuation of arrays of 3D microtissues using microcantilevers. This system enables both in situ measurements of fundamental mechanical properties of engineered tissue, such as contractility and stiffness, as well as dynamic stimulation of the microtissues. Using this system, cell and extracellular matrix contributions to the tissue mechanical properties are decoupled for the first time under both static and dynamic loading conditions.

Medical subject headings