Next seminar: 4/23/2025

Cellular biomechanics measured using combined atomic force – traction force microscopy

Cristian Staii

Department of Physics and Astronomy, Tufts University

Abstract

The biomechanical properties of neuronal cells are critical to their development, function, and structural stability. These properties influence cytoskeletal organization, axonal growth, and the formation of functional synapses. While substantial progress has been made in understanding neuronal growth and connectivity, a complete picture of axonal dynamics—incorporating the mechanical interactions between neurons and their environment—is still lacking. In this talk, I will present an integrated experimental platform that combines three high-resolution techniques: atomic force microscopy, fluorescence imaging, and traction force microscopy. Using this experimental setup, we measure the elastic modulus of cortical neurons with high spatial resolution and correlate these measurements with the traction forces generated by axons on their substrate. We also track cytoskeletal components to connect axonal behavior with changes in cytoskeletal dynamics, cellular volume, and cell biomechanical properties. In addition, I will discuss biomechanical measurements performed on human leukemia monocytic (THP-1) cells encapsulated in silk fibroin biomaterials. These results offer valuable insights for designing advanced biomaterial interfaces aimed at enhancing cellular protection and functional integration.

Squishy Physics & Pizza Seminar Series

When: Wednesday Evenings at 6pm. Pizza served after the talk.

Where: Room 209, Pierce Hall, 29 Oxford St, on the Harvard Campus. Directions and parking instructions are here.

What: These talks are informal, with emphasis on new results and ideas, rather than polished presentations. The Squishy audience members typically include soft matter scientists, physicists, engineers, chemists, and biologists.  The goal is to stimulate discussion with the audience.  Talks are typically about 45 minutes long, with lots of questions along the way.

Pizza: Only the finest! 

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Parking: Metered parking is available on Oxford Street. Speakers, please contact Matthew Zahnzinger to obtain a parking permit.  

Squishy Physics is sponsored by the Weitz Research Group.

If you have comments or suggestions or would like to give a talk, please send an email to Thomas Litschel (tlitschel@seas.harvard.edu).