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Cell Adhesive Force Generation

Cell adhesion to extracellular matrices comprises integrin receptor binding to their extracellular ligand, integrin clustering, and assembly of focal adhesion structures containing cytoskeletal and signaling molecules. We have developed a unique experimental and theoretical framework integrating a hydrodynamic adhesion force assay, nano/micropatterning techniques, and unique molecular/cell biology reagents to analyze the contributions of adhesive area, integrin binding, and focal adhesion assembly to adhesive force. We are currently using this framework to analyze the role of focal adhesion components (e.g., FAK, vinculin) in adhesive force generation and nanoscale organization of focal adhesions in the generation of cell-extracellular matrix forces.

Nanoscale Organization