In vitro cell shearing device to investigate the dynamic response of cells in a controlled hydrodynamic environment

Abstract

A new controlled cell shearing device (CCSD) was developed to control independently the dynamic and steady components of the hydrodynamic shear-stress environment. To validate the application of the device as a viable in vitro tool, functional and structural responses in cultured endothelial cells were examined under dynamic flow. It was found that peak change in intracellular free calcium is insensitive to the onset rate of shear stress, and that the mechanical integrity of the endothelial plasma membrane can be compromised in a shear-stress magnitude and loading-rate-dependent manner.