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Cell migration is a process by which the cells move from one location to another, playing an essential role in embryological development, repair and regeneration, immune response, and metastasis. Cells migrate in response to chemical or mechanical signals generated by specific organs or tissues. The overall mechanism includes three steps - polarization, protrusion, and release. Polarization involves the formation of a distinct cell front and rear, which determines the direction of movement.
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Updated: Feb 19, 2026

Microscopy Based Methods for the Assessment of Epithelial Cell Migration During In Vitro Wound Healing
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Single-Cell Defects Cause a Long-Range Mechanical Response in a Confluent Epithelial Cell Layer.

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  • 1Institute for Physical Chemistry, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.

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|November 14, 2017
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Summary

Epithelial cells collectively increase contractility to rapidly close single-cell wounds. This response, driven by cortical tension, extends far beyond the immediate defect, maintaining tissue integrity.

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Area of Science:

  • Cell biology
  • Biophysics
  • Tissue engineering

Background:

  • Epithelial cells maintain tissue homeostasis and barrier function.
  • Rapid wound closure is essential for tissue repair and function restoration.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanical properties of epithelial cells during single-cell wound closure.
  • To understand the collective cellular response to minimal tissue damage.

Main Methods:

  • Induction of single-cell wounds using micropipette aspiration and laser ablation.
  • Monitoring cellular responses with atomic force microscopy.
  • Analysis of apparent pretension and cortical tension in neighboring cells.

Main Results:

  • A rise in apparent pretension, dominated by cortical tension, was observed in direct neighbors of the wound.
  • This effect was consistent across different wound induction methods and layer confluency.
  • Changes in apparent pretension were detected in cells up to three cell widths away from the defect.

Conclusions:

  • Epithelial cells exhibit a collective and far-reaching response to minimal wounds.
  • Increased contractility in surrounding cells is a key mechanism for rapid wound closure.
  • This coordinated cellular behavior is crucial for maintaining tissue integrity during repair.