Kinematically-Dominated Regime Shapes Cell Traction Force Dynamics under Osmotic Shock
Adherent cells must continuously adapt to rapid environmental fluctuations to preserve mechanical integrity. However, conventional theoretical frameworks predominantly rely on quasi-static assumptions, thereby limiting their ability to capture the transient dynamics of cellular responses to high-rate perturbations, such as acute osmotic shocks. To address this limitation, we developed a…
Cells constantly need to adjust to sudden changes in their surroundings to maintain their structural stability. However, existing theories usually assume conditions that don't change much over time, which means they struggle to explain how cells react when things change very quickly, like during an abrupt change in their environment.
To tackle this issue, researchers created a physical model that connects the behavior of the cell's internal structure with its movements at the edge, explaining why cells sometimes weaken their grip on their surroundings when they quickly absorb large amounts of water, even though they are getting bigger. The researchers also developed a diagram that shows how the traditional theories that don't consider time (quasi-static theories) relate to their new dynamic model.
Furthermore, they found that how these cells apply force varies depending on how quickly the change happens and how strong the change is. Additionally, using computer simulations and some additional tests, the team discovered that cells with stronger internal structures recover more quickly after an osmotic shock, mainly because they can more effectively push back against the force of water trying to enter their cells.
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