Spheroid mechanics and implications for cell invasion

Spheroids are widely used in vitro 3D multicellular model systems that mimic complex physiological microenvironments of tissues. As different cell types vary deformability and adhesion, the choice (heterogeneous) composition will define overall spheroid mechanics, including their viscoelasticity effective surface tension. These mechanical parameters directly influence sorting possibly invasion into extracellular matrix. Spheroid models therefore provide fundamental insights relation between cellular mechanics important processes, such as tissue formation, embryonic remodeling, cancer metastasis. In this review, we first summarize compare current biophysical tools probe spheroids either from outside or within, then relate to cell-cell subsequently discuss role alongside surrounding microenvironment (cancer) migration. We conclude by pointing out research gaps drawing attention novel techniques could shed more light on characterization framework remodeling