Mechanobiology of the cell surface: Probing its remodeling dynamics using membrane tether pulling assays with optical tweezers

[摘要] Mammalian cell surfaces consist of the plasma membrane supported by an underneath cortical cytoskeleton.Together, these structures can control not only the shape of cells but also a series of cellular functions ranging frommigration and division to exocytosis, endocytosis and differentiation. Furthermore, the cell surface is capable ofexerting and reacting to mechanical forces. Its viscoelastic properties, especially membrane tension and bendingmodulus, are fundamental parameters involved in these responses. This viewpoint summarizes our current knowledgeon how to measure the viscoelastic properties of cell surfaces employing optical tweezers-based tether assays, pavingthe way for a better understanding of how cells react to external mechanical forces, with a glance on their remodelingdynamics and possible consequences on downstream cellular processes.

[学科分类] 仪器

[关键词] Cell surface architecture;Actin cortex;Membrane-cytoskeleton complex;Optical tweezers;Tether extraction