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Most cells are known to respond to mechanical cues, which initiate biochemical signalling pathways and play a role in cell membrane electrodynamics. These cues can be transduced either via direct activation of mechanosensitive (MS) ion channels or through deformation of the cell membrane and cytoskeleton. Investigation of the function and role of these ion channels is a fertile area of research and studies aimed at characterizing and understanding the mechanoactive regions of these channels and how they interact with the cytoskeleton are fundamental to discovering the specific role that mechanical cues play in cells. In this review, we will focus on novel techniques, which use magnetic micro- and nanoparticles coupled to external applied magnetic fields for activating and investigating MS ion channels and cytoskeletal mechanics.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.medengphy.2005.04.006

Type

Journal article

Journal

Med Eng Phys

Publication Date

11/2005

Volume

27

Pages

754 - 762

Keywords

Biomechanical Phenomena, Ion Channel Gating, Ion Channels, Magnetics, Mechanoreceptors, Mechanotransduction, Cellular, Models, Biological, Nanotubes, Particle Size, Physical Stimulation, Stress, Mechanical, Structure-Activity Relationship