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The elastic modulus of Matrigel as determined by atomic force microscopy
Shauheen S Soofi1, Julie A Last, Sara J Liliensiek
1Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, United States.
Journal of Structural Biology
|June 2, 2009
Summary
The elastic modulus of Matrigel, a basement membrane simulant, was measured using atomic force microscopy. Results indicate Matrigel softens at temperatures below 37°C, impacting its mechanical properties.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Cellular microenvironment biophysical properties significantly influence cell behaviors.
- Extracellular matrix (ECM) mechanical properties, like elastic modulus, are critical for cell regulation and pathology.
- Basement membrane (BM) is a specialized ECM layer serving as a cell interface.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the local elastic modulus of Matrigel, a basement membrane simulant, under physiological conditions.
- To investigate the mechanical properties of Matrigel using atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Main Methods:
- Indentation tests were performed on Matrigel using AFM.
- Experiments were conducted in an aqueous, temperature-controlled environment to simulate physiological conditions.
Main Results:
- The average elastic modulus of Matrigel was determined to be approximately 450 Pa.
- This value is higher than previously reported macroscopic shear storage moduli for Matrigel.
- A discrepancy is noted, potentially due to differences in testing methodologies and Matrigel's temperature-dependent softening below 37°C.
Conclusions:
- Atomic force microscopy provides a method to determine the local elastic modulus of Matrigel.
- Matrigel exhibits temperature-dependent softening, crucial for interpreting its mechanical behavior in biological contexts.
- Understanding Matrigel's mechanical properties is vital for its use as a biomaterial in cell culture and tissue engineering.
