Multicellular organisms are composed of diverse cell types that must coordinate their
behaviors through communication. Cell–cell communication (CCC) is essential for growth …

Cells exert, sense, and respond to physical forces through an astounding diversity of
mechanisms. Here we review recently developed tools to quantify the forces generated by …

Malignant transformation and tumour progression are associated with cancer-cell softening.
Yet how the biomechanics of cancer cells affects T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity and thus the …

Fundamental biological processes are carried out by curved epithelial sheets that enclose a
pressurized lumen. How these sheets develop and withstand three-dimensional …

Forces generated by cells are critical regulators of cell adhesion, signaling, and function,
and they are also essential drivers in the morphogenetic events of development. Over the …

The way in which a cell migrates is influenced by the physical properties of its surroundings,
in particular the properties of the extracellular matrix. How the physical aspects of the cell's …

Materials patterned with high‐aspect‐ratio nanostructures have features on similar length
scales to cellular components. These surfaces are an extreme topography on the cellular …

When cells move using integrin-based focal adhesions, they pull in the direction of motion
with large,∼ 100 Pa, stresses that contract the substrate. Integrin-mediated adhesions …

Cells generate mechanical forces (traction forces, TFs) while interacting with the
extracellular matrix or neighbouring cells. Forces are generated by both cells and …

Living tissues are active, multifunctional materials capable of generating, sensing,
withstanding and responding to mechanical stress. These capabilities enable tissues to …