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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
06:37
Protrusion Force Microscopy: A Method to Quantify Forces Developed by Cell Protrusions
Published on: June 16, 2018
Wide range scanning probe microscopy for probing mechanical effects on cellular function
Takeomi Mizutani1, Hisashi Haga, Kosaku Kato
1Division of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan. mizutani@sci.hokudai.ac.jp
Archives of Histology and Cytology
|April 8, 2011
Summary
A new wide range scanning probe microscope (WR-SPM) enables studying cellular events beyond conventional limits. This advanced tool reveals how cell stiffness changes under stress and maps surface structures, aiding cell function research.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) is valuable for imaging biological surfaces in liquid.
- Conventional SPM has limitations in measuring dynamic cellular events like migration due to range restrictions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the instrumentation and applications of a novel wide range scanning probe microscope (WR-SPM).
- To demonstrate WR-SPM's utility in investigating cellular mechanical properties and surface structures.
Main Methods:
- Development and implementation of WR-SPM with extended measurement ranges (400 µm xy, 23 µm z).
- Application of WR-SPM in topographical and mechanical modes to study epithelial and melanoma cells.
Main Results:
- Epithelial cell stiffness increases under external stretching forces.
- Detailed mesh structure on melanoma cell surfaces was visualized.
- Regulatory mechanisms of cellular contractile force were elucidated.
Conclusions:
- WR-SPM significantly expands the capabilities for studying cellular functions.
- The instrument is highly effective for correlating cell surface structure with mechanical properties.
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