Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2026
10:08
Light-Induced Dielectrophoresis for Characterizing the Electrical Behavior of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Published on: June 16, 2023
Viscoelastic behaviour of human mesenchymal stem cells
Samuel C W Tan1, Wen X Pan, Gang Ma
1Division of Bioengineering, School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637457, Singapore. tanc0101@ntu.edu.sg
BMC Cell Biology
|July 23, 2008
Summary
Human adult bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) exhibit viscoelastic solid behavior. Their mechanical properties are influenced by F-actin filaments and temperature.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cellular Mechanics
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Investigating the viscoelastic properties of human adult bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs).
- Understanding the role of F-actin filaments in maintaining hMSC viscoelasticity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the viscoelastic behavior of individual hMSCs.
- To determine the impact of F-actin integrity and temperature on hMSC mechanical properties.
Main Methods:
- Micropipette aspiration technique.
- Application of a standard linear viscoelastic solid model.
- Analysis of hMSCs at room temperature (20°C) and physiological temperature (37°C).
Main Results:
- At 20°C, Young's modulus (E0, Einfinity) and apparent viscosity (μ) were quantified.
- Cytochalasin D treatment significantly reduced stiffness and increased viscosity.
- At 37°C, a decrease in stiffness and an increase in viscosity were observed compared to controls.
- Most hMSCs displayed viscoelastic solid behavior, with some exhibiting non-typical responses.
Conclusions:
- hMSCs function as viscoelastic solids.
- hMSC viscoelasticity is dependent on F-actin filament structural integrity.
- Temperature significantly influences the viscoelastic behavior of hMSCs.
