Advancing Mechanobiology: Innovative Methods and Techniques for Cell and Tissue Analysis

TOPICAL COLLECTIONS

Guest Editor

Pradeep Keshavanarayana

University College London

Dr Pradeep Keshavanarayana is currently a research fellow at University College London, UK, working at the intersection of biomechanics, computational modeling, and ocular diseases. His current research focuses on developing multiscale computational models to enhance the efficacy of anti-VEGF therapies for diabetic macular oedema. With a PhD in cell mechanics from the University of Glasgow and prior appointments at the University of Birmingham, UK, Dr Keshavanarayana has contributed to diverse domains ranging from cell reorientation to vascular dynamics. His interdisciplinary expertise spans cell culture, additive manufacturing, finite element modeling, and multiscale simulation. As a JoVE Guest Editor, he aims to highlight reproducible, cross-disciplinary methods that advance understanding of cell and tissue-level mechanobiology.

Collection Overview

Mechanobiology, an inherently interdisciplinary field, explores how physical forces and the mechanical properties of cells and tissues influence biological processes. By revealing the intricate interplay between mechanical cues and cellular behaviour, the field revolutionizes our understanding of development, disease progression, and therapeutic interventions.

This JoVE Methods Collection presents a comprehensive collection of video articles showcasing cutting-edge mechanobiology methodologies and approaches. Importantly, the collection features the application of mathematical models, from predictive biomechanical models to ImageJ analysis plugins, demonstrating how computational methods can be used to either simulate biological responses to mechanical stimuli or interpret experimental data.

Furthermore, these articles showcase a variety of experimental techniques, from atomic force microscopy and optical tweezers for examining cellular stiffness to advanced microfluidic systems for delivering controlled mechanical stimuli. These methods provide comprehensive visual guides for studying cellular mechanotransduction, tissue remodeling, and the biomechanics of various disease states.

Ultimately, this collection aims to serve as an invaluable resource for researchers seeking to establish or refine their mechanobiology investigations, promoting reproducibility and accelerating discoveries in this dynamic field.