Micropipette aspiration: A unique tool for exploring cell and tissue mechanics in vivo

Cell and tissue mechanical properties are paramount in controlling morphogenesis. Microaspiration techniques allow measuring the absolute values of mechanical properties in space and time in vivo. Here, we explain how to build a microaspiration setup that can be used for both cellular and tissue scale measurements. At the cellular scale, microaspiration allows the mapping in space and time of surface tensions of individual interfaces within a tissue to understand the forces shaping it. At the tissue scale, microaspiration can be used to measure macroscopic mechanical properties such as the viscoelasticity and tissue surface tension that regulate the dynamics of tissue deformation. Based on a simple and cost-effective apparatus, these two complementary microaspiration techniques provide unique tools for exploring cell and tissue mechanics in vivo.