Mechanobiological

Mechanobiological describes processes or systems involving the interplay of mechanical forces and biological activity. It explores how cells, tissues, and organisms respond to, and are shaped by, physical stimuli like pressure, tension, shear stress, and compression. This field integrates mechanics, biology, and often chemistry to understand how these forces influence cellular behavior, including growth, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. Key areas of focus include bone development, cardiovascular health, tissue engineering, and cancer progression, highlighting the significant impact of physical forces on living systems. This field is heavily studied by biomaterial engineers, scientists, and doctors.

Mechanobiological meaning with examples

• Researchers studying bone remodeling use mechanobiological principles to understand how bone cells (osteoblasts and osteoclasts) respond to mechanical loading. The rhythmic application of mechanical force stimulates bone formation, leading to increased density and strength. In space, where there is little gravity, we might observe adverse results if this mechanobiological principle is not incorporated.
• Understanding mechanobiological signaling pathways in blood vessels is crucial for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases. Endothelial cells lining the vessels respond to shear stress from blood flow, regulating vascular tone, permeability, and inflammation. Disruptions to this mechanobiological signaling can contribute to atherosclerosis and hypertension.
• In tissue engineering, mechanobiological factors are incorporated to develop scaffolds that promote tissue regeneration. The physical properties of the scaffold, like stiffness and porosity, can direct cell behavior, controlling cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Controlling these properties is key to this mechanobiological design process.
• Cancer cells adapt their mechanobiological properties to invade and metastasize. They can alter their cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix interactions to move through tissues and spread to distant sites. Studies exploring these mechanobiological adaptations aim to identify therapeutic targets to halt cancer progression.