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Updated: Feb 8, 2026

Characterizing Multiscale Mechanical Properties of Brain Tissue Using Atomic Force Microscopy, Impact Indentation, and Rheometry
Published on: September 6, 2016
Mechanisms and impact of altered tumour mechanics
1Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
Abstract:
The physical characteristics of tumours are intricately linked to the tumour phenotype and difficulties during treatment. Many factors contribute to the increased stiffness of tumours; from increased matrix deposition, matrix remodelling by forces from cancer cells and stromal fibroblasts, matrix crosslinking, increased cellularity, and the build-up of both solid and interstitial pressure. Increased stiffness then feeds back to increase tumour invasiveness and reduce therapy efficacy. Increased understanding of this interplay is offering new therapeutic avenues.
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