Uniaxial strain system to investigate strain rate regulation in vitro

Cells are able to sense and respond to mechanical strain both in vivo and in vitro, and though the ability of strain to stimulate intracellular biochemical events is well established, the influence of the rate at which these strains are applied has not been extensively investigated. In order to study the role of strain as well as strain rate, an in vitro device has been developed and validated for applying cyclic uniaxial strains to cells cultured on a silicone sheet substrate. The stepper motor driven system provides strains up to 50% in increments as small as 12 nm (0.25 μstrain) at strain rates from μstrain/day to 300%/s. Computer control allows all displacement parameters to be easily modified and provides precise control, while the low profile design and planar culture surface allows the cells to be visualized during all phases of cell culture and strain application. Displacement parameters were verified using a linear variable displacement transformer to track linear motion, while strain analysis of...

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