Silicon nanowire-based methodology for quantifying single cell traction force

Abstract

In this paper, we present a new method, a siliconnanowire- array based technique for quantifying the mechanical behavior of single cells, representing three distinct groups: normal mammalian cells, benign cells (L929) and malignant cells (HeLa). By culturing the cells on top of NW arrays, the maximum traction forces of different cells have been measured by quantitatively analyzing the bending of the nanowires. The elastic modulus of the as-fabricated Si-NW arrays was first measured before cell culturing. Finite Element (FEM) simulations were carried out in order to derive the relationship between the applied transverse force and the corresponding tip displacement for a Si-NW. Our study is likely important for studying the mechanical properties of single cells and their migration characteristics, possibly providing a new cellular level diagnostic technique. © 2013 Springer-Verlag.