Architecture-dependent anisotropic hysteresis in smooth muscle cells

Cells within mechanically dynamic tissues like arteries are exposed to ever-changing forces and deformations. In some pathologies, like aneurysms, complex loads may alter how cells transduce forces, driving maladaptive growth and remodeling. Here, we aimed to determine the dynamic mechanical properties of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) under biaxial load. Using cellular micro-biaxial stretching (CBS) microscopy, we measured the large-strain anisotropic stress-strain hysteresis of VSMCs and found that hysteresis is strongly dependent on load orientation and actin organization.

https://ift.tt/2Pafyj5