Harris et al first described wrinkling of thin silicone sheets as a method for estimating forces of adherent cells and are credited with launching the field of TFM. Collagen-based assays also confound measures of contractility with matrix degradation, matrix production and cell-cell interactions, rendering TFM a valuable and potentially high-content complement to other cellular and molecular techniques. In addition, TFM can be implemented using less expensive materials at lower quantities than those typically used for collagen compaction-based assays of fibroblast contractility. Techniques to optically monitor cellular forces in vitro, collectively called traction force microscopy (TFM), are promising functional assays to investigate fundamental pathophysiology of dermatological disease and to support development and screening of potential therapies to modulate wound healing and scar formation via force generation.Īs an optical microscopy-based technique, TFM does not involve specialized metrology tools nor direct contact with cells, enabling inexpensive implementation and simple incorporation into most experimental workflows. Mechanical force can also intensify scar formation, and small molecule modulation of cell contraction has reduced scarring in mouse models after incisions and burns. ![]() Modulation of migration can accelerate wound healing, for example via epidermal growth factor, and cell migration relies heavily on mechanical forces. Given the complexities of wound healing processes, functional assays to monitor these forces can be useful in preclinical development of new therapeutic strategies. Dermal cells generate traction forces on their surroundings to migrate, contract wounds and maintain barrier function.
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