Revealing the nanoindentation response of a single cell using a 3D structural finite element model

Abstract Changes in the apparent moduli of cells have been reported to correlate with cell abnormalities and disease. Indentation is commonly used measure these moduli; however, there evidence suggest that indentation protocol employed affects measured moduli, which can affect our understanding how physiological conditions regulate mechanics. Most studies treat as a homogeneous material or simple core–shell structure consisting cytoplasm nucleus: both are far from real cells. To study protocol-dependent mechanics, finite element model key intracellular components (cortex layer, cytoplasm, actin stress fibres, microtubules, nucleus) has instead developed. Results shown obtained conical indenters decreased increasing cone angle; this change was less significant for spherical radii. Furthermore, interplay between indenter geometry also studied, useful structure-mechanics-function relationships