Abstract
Cell aggregates, including sheets and spheroids, represent a simple yet powerful model system to study both biochemical and biophysical intercellular interactions. However, it is becoming evident that, although the mechanical properties and behavior of multicellular structures share some similarities with individual cells, yet distinct differences are observed in some principal aspects. The description of mechanical phenomena at the level of multicellular model systems is a necessary step for understanding tissue mechanics and its fundamental principles in health and disease. Both cell sheets and spheroids are used in tissue engineering, and the modulation of mechanical properties of cell constructs is a promising tool for regenerative medicine. Here, we review the data on mechanical characterization of cell sheets and spheroids, focusing both on advances in the measurement techniques and current understanding of the subject. The reviewed material suggest that interplay between the ECM, intercellular junctions, and cellular contractility determines the behavior and mechanical properties of the cell aggregates.
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The authors declare no competing interests.
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This work was financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation within the framework of state support for the creation and development of World-Class Research Centers “Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare” No 075-15-2020-926.
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Efremov, Y.M., Zurina, I.M., Presniakova, V.S. et al. Mechanical properties of cell sheets and spheroids: the link between single cells and complex tissues. Biophys Rev 13, 541–561 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12551-021-00821-w
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12551-021-00821-w