Date of Award:
5-2015
Document Type:
Thesis
Degree Name:
Master of Science (MS)
Department:
Biological Engineering
Committee Chair(s)
Anhong Zhou
Committee
Anhong Zhou
Committee
Elizabeth Vargis
Committee
Ling Liu
Abstract
The function of cells is dependent on factors including chemical, physical, and mechanical stimuli. A compilation of these factors make up the cellular niche. Though the impact of chemical stimuli has been a known factor for many years, the impact of mechanical and physical stimuli are areas of recent interest now being studied. Previous studies on mechanical and physical stimuli have shown a large impact on various aspects of cellular function.
The effects of cancer are wide spread throughout the entire population. The majority of cancer research and treatment is regarding intracellular chemical pathways. Yet, many forms of cancer are often diagnosed based on differences in the rigidity of the cancer tissue and surrounding healthy tissues. Types of treatment regarding only chemical pathways neglect the usefulness of other stimuli in treating cancerous cells.
The substrates that cells are cultured on provide rigidity and topography signals. By modifying the substrate, it is possible to modify the types of signals received by cells on particular substrates. Polydimethylsiloxane is a biocompatible thermoset polymer that is easily molded and modified. These characteristics make it an optimal substrate for cell culture and fabrication of modified substrates.
The changes in cell morphology and biomechanics provide a way to quantify the effects of the mechanical stimuli on cancer cells. These changes are monitored using instruments to probe the elasticity of the cells as well as measure the size of the cells.
A better understanding of cellular function based on all types of stimuli can help determine the best possible way to treat cancers. By determining the effect of certain mechanical stimuli on these cells we will be closer to finding more effective cancer treatments.
Checksum
999cd848c30625ebdc66b0426667c015
Recommended Citation
Ward, Sherissa A., "The Effect of Polydimethylsiloxane Substrate Modification on A549 Human Epithelial Lung Cancer Cell Morphology and Biomechanics" (2015). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023. 4161.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/4161
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