The IsoStretcher: An isotropic cell stretch device to study mechanical biosensor pathways in living cells

摘要: Mechanosensation in many organs (e.g. lungs, heart, gut) is mediated by biosensors (like mechanosensitive ion channels), which convert mechanical stimuli into electrical and/or biochemical signals. To study those pathways, technical devices are needed that apply strain profiles to cells, and ideally allow simultaneous live-cell microscopy analysis. Strain can be complex multiaxial, e.g. hollow organs. Most mechanobiology longitudinal uniaxial stretch adhered cells using elastomeric membranes biosensors. Recent approaches biomedical engineering have employed intelligent systems biaxial or multiaxial cells. Here, we present an isotropic cell system (IsoStretcher) overcomes some previous limitations. Our uses a rotational swivel mechanism translates radial displacement of hooks attached small circular silicone membranes. Isotropicity focus stability demonstrated with fluorescent beads, transmission efficiency elastomer membrane cellular area change HeLa/HEK Applying our lamin-A overexpressing fibrosarcoma found markedly reduced area, indicative stiffer cytoskeleton. We also investigated stretch-activated Ca(2+) entry atrial HL-1 myocytes. 10% induced robust oscillating increases intracellular Fluo-4 fluorescence. Store-operated was not detected these The Isostretcher provides useful versatile tool for mechanobiology.