Viscoelastic Behavior of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Tan Samuel CW, Pan Wen X, Ma Gang, Cai Ning, Leong Kam W, Liao Kin
Primary Institution: Nanyang Technological University
Hypothesis
This study aimed to investigate the viscoelastic behavior of human adult bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and the role of F-actin filaments in maintaining these properties.
Conclusion
hMSCs behave as viscoelastic solid, and their viscoelastic behavior is dependent on the structural integrity of the F-actin filaments and temperature.
Supporting Evidence
- The instantaneous Young's modulus of hMSCs was found to be 886 ± 289 Pa.
- At 37°C, the Young's modulus decreased significantly by 42-66% compared to the control at 20°C.
- hMSCs treated with cytochalasin D showed a significant drop in stiffness and an increase in viscosity.
Takeaway
The study found that human stem cells can stretch and change shape like a rubber band, and this ability depends on their internal structure and temperature.
Methodology
The viscoelastic properties of hMSCs were studied using micropipette aspiration technique at different temperatures and with cytochalasin D treatment.
Limitations
The study did not explore the effects of other cytoskeletal components on viscoelastic behavior.
Participant Demographics
Human adult bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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