4 - Cell stretching and compression

Abstract

This chapter introduces the use of a variety of robot-assisted micromanipulation tools to deform cells to characterize the cell functions and regulate intracellular transmission. Five topics are introduced. First, robotically controlled optical tweezers are used to stretch single cells to explore their mechanobiological properties. Second, a model of the actin cytoskeleton under optical stretching is established to understand the relationship between cell mechanical behavior and cell function changes. Third, the dielectrophoresis (DEP) stretching of individual cells is introduced. The DEP force can provide a larger stretching force than optical stretching. Fourth, the cells are compressed by mechanical constraints, which can result in greater cell deformation. Finally, a unique method is introduced that uses millimeter-sized iron rods or spheres driven by magnetic force to selectively deform cells. This method can be used to achieve in situ intracellular delivery. Experimental tests and case studies are also provided for these topics. The chapter proves that robotic cell manipulation in combination with manipulation tools (such as optical tweezers and others) can be successfully used to stretch and compress single cells, which may further have a significant impact on biological research and medical treatment.