Measurement of Cell Forces Using a Polymer MEMS Sensor

Cellular mechanics are responsible for execution and regulation of a number of cell functions. Mechanical forces generated within the cytoskeleton are transmitted via transmembrane linkages to the underlying substrate. Measurement of these forces could lead to a wealth of additional information about the role of cell mechanics in regulating cell function and signal transduction. Here we describe the design, fabrication, and testing of a polystyrene cantilever beam array for measuring forces generated by WS1 human skin fibroblasts. Finite element analysis was used to guide the design of a compound cantilever beam. Sensors were fabricated from polystyrene to provide a well-studied and biocompatible surface for cell attachment. Soft lithography based techniques were used for microfabrication of the sensors. Cells were placed on four and eight probe cantilever sensors and deflection of the probes was measured optically during attachment and spreading of the cells. The device was successfully used to measure time varying mechanical forces generated by fibroblast cells.