AFM macro-probes to investigate whole 3D cardiac spheroids

In its many applications, the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) is a promising tool in cardiac mechanobiology because it can unravel viscoelastic and mechano-dynamic properties of individual cardiomyocytes. However, biophysical investigation more accurate 3D models hampered by commercial probes, which typically operate at cell sub-compartmental resolution. We have previously shown how flat macro-probes overcome these limitations extending AFM mechanical measurements to multicellular aggregates. Such are fabricated standard micromachining carry polymeric wedge offset mounting tilt. Therefore, upgraded micro-parallel plate rheometer with unmatched force range sensitivity. this article, we show be applied reveal global rheology primary cardiomyocytes spheroids, performing stress-relaxation tests. More importantly, demonstrate that used as passive sensors capable monitoring spheroid beating pattern, perform “micro-CPR” on itself.