Numerous studies have described the effects of matrix stiffening on cell behavior using two-
dimensional synthetic surfaces; however, less is known about the effects of matrix stiffening …

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are capable of probing and responding to the
mechanical properties of their substrate. Although most biological and synthetic matrices are …

Cell migration results from stepwise mechanical and chemical interactions between cells
and their extracellular environment. Mechanistic principles that determine single-cell and …

Adherent cells, crawling slugs, peeling paint, sessile liquid drops, bearings and many other
living and non-living systems apply forces to solid substrates. Traction force microscopy …

Cells generate mechanical forces (traction forces, TFs) while interacting with the
extracellular matrix or neighbouring cells. Forces are generated by both cells and …

Stress fibers (SFs) are often the most prominent cytoskeletal structures in cells growing in
tissue culture. Composed of actin filaments, myosin II, and many other proteins, SFs are …

Recent studies have demonstrated that mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs),
including Jun N-terminus kinase (JNK), p38 and Erk, play crucial roles in cell migration. JNK …

Currently> 50 proteins have been reported to be associated with focal contacts and related
ECM adhesions. Most of these contain multiple domains through which they can interact …

▪ Abstract The conversion of physical signals, such as contractile forces or external
mechanical perturbations, into chemical signaling events is a fundamental cellular process …

To adhere and migrate, cells must be capable of applying cytoskeletal force to the
extracellular matrix (ECM) through integrin receptors. However, it is unclear if connections …