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Single-Cell Biophysics: Measurement, Modulation, and Modeling
Poster Abstracts
146
96-POS
Board 48
Simultaneous Measurement of Cellular and Nuclear Optical Deformability for Single Cell
Mechanics
Kai Skodzek,
Graeme Whyte
.
Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
Measurement of cell mechanics can give insight into the current state of individual cells by
measuring their inherent physical properties, without requiring the addition of any markers.
Changes in the mechanical properties have been linked to a wide variety in changes in the type,
function and health of individual cells, with both the cytoskeletal and nuclear stiffness being
variable, however the ability to measure both of those at the same time, in the same cell have
been limited. To counter this, we have developed a novel form of optical stretcher which is
capable of measuring both properties simultaneously, and allows comparison of the relative
contributions to overall cell stiffness. By adding the additional dimension to cell mechanics data,
more detailed understanding can be sought of the changes cells undergo when they modulate
their physical properties, and may lead to more accurate detection of changes in cell function or
disease.