Berlin 2024 – scientific programme

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BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik

BP 9: Poster Session Ib

BP 9.3: Poster

Monday, March 18, 2024, 18:00–20:30, Poster D

Investigation of cortex-membrane interactions forming cell stiffness — •Tim Kutz¹, Andreas Janshoff², and Timo Betz¹ — ¹Third Institute of Physics, Georg August Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany — ²Institute of Physical Chemistry, Georg August Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany

Cellular stiffness, a critical aspect of cell mechanics, influences cellular functions, like migration or responses to external stimuli. However, the precise origin of cellular and in particular cortical stiffness remains a subject of intensive investigation. Deciphering whether the stiffness of the cell surface predominantly arises from the cell membrane, the actin cortex beneath the membrane, or a synergistic combination of both is essential for advancing our knowledge of cell mechanics. To address this challenge, we propose a comprehensive approach that combines atomic force microscopy (AFM), confocal spinning disk fluorescence microscopy (CSDFM), and micropipette aspiration. AFM allows for high-resolution topographical imaging, offering nanoscale insights into the mechanical properties of the cell membrane and the underlying actin cortex. Simultaneously, CSDFM provides dynamic 3D visualization of cellular processes, augmenting our understanding of the structural components influencing cellular mechanics. The integration of micropipette aspiration complements these techniques by directly manipulating mechanical forces applied to the cell. This multi-modal approach not only enhances the precision and depth of our biomechanical analyses but also enables the correlation of structural and dynamic information, providing a holistic perspective on cellular mechanics.

Keywords: Cell stiffness; AFM; Fluorecence microscopy; Micropipette aspiration