Cell biomechanics: a brief overview

In this issue of the Journal of Biomechanical Engineering, there are eleven papers and one technical brief in the general area of "Cell Biomechanics." In general, the work in these papers focuses on measuring and characterizing the mechanical and adhesive properties of cells and membranes. Included are studies of lipid membranes, erythrocytes, endothelial cells, and neutrophils. Characterizing and measuring the properties and behavior of cells in both passive and active states present a major challenge to investigators in this field. In this paper in the comments to follow, a simple overview of the field is presented and the principles and techniques used in the studies of cell biomechanics are discussed.