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Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces01:13

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In animal cells, the extracellular matrix allows cells within tissues to withstand external stresses and transmits signals from the outside of the cell to the inside. The extracellular matrix is extensive, and its composition varies between different types of tissues. For example, the reticular fibers and ground substance make up the ECM in loose connective tissue, while collagen and bone minerals make up the ECM of bone tissue. 
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Mammalian Cell Division in 3D Matrices via Quantitative Confocal Reflection Microscopy
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Contractile forces regulate cell division in three-dimensional environments.

Ayelet Lesman1, Jacob Notbohm, David A Tirrell

  • 1Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and 2 Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125.

The Journal of Cell Biology
|April 30, 2014
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Physical forces guide cell division in 3D environments. Dividing cells use matrix protrusions to apply tensile forces, orienting their division axis and invading the matrix.

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Area of Science:

  • Cell biology
  • Biophysics
  • Biomaterials

Background:

  • Physical forces on 2D substrates orient cell division.
  • Regulation of cell division by physical forces in 3D environments remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate how physical forces regulate cell division in 3D matrices.
  • Map matrix displacements and cellular forces during cell division in 3D.

Main Methods:

  • Live-cell imaging
  • Digital volume correlation to map 3D matrix displacements
  • Analysis of cellular contractile forces during division

Main Results:

  • Dividing cells in fibrous matrices use long protrusions for anchorage.
  • Cells apply tensile forces at protrusion tips to orient the division axis.
  • Daughter cells invade the matrix post-division, maintaining traction forces.

Conclusions:

  • Mechanical interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix are crucial for regulating cell division in 3D.
  • Cellular force application via protrusions is a key mechanism in 3D cell division.