Mechanobiology in oncology: basic concepts and clinical prospects

Michelle B. Chen; Yousef Javanmardi; Somayeh Shahreza; Bianca Serwinski; Bianca Serwinski; Bianca Serwinski; Amir Aref; Boris Djordjevic; Boris Djordjevic; Emad Moeendarbary; Emad Moeendarbary

doi:10.3389/fcell.2023.1239749

Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology (Oct 2023)

Mechanobiology in oncology: basic concepts and clinical prospects

Michelle B. Chen,
Yousef Javanmardi,
Somayeh Shahreza,
Bianca Serwinski,
Bianca Serwinski,
Bianca Serwinski,
Amir Aref,
Boris Djordjevic,
Boris Djordjevic,
Emad Moeendarbary,
Emad Moeendarbary

Affiliations

Michelle B. Chen: Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
Yousef Javanmardi: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
Somayeh Shahreza: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
Bianca Serwinski: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
Bianca Serwinski: 199 Biotechnologies Ltd., London, United Kingdom
Bianca Serwinski: Northeastern University London, London, United Kingdom
Amir Aref: Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
Boris Djordjevic: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
Boris Djordjevic: 199 Biotechnologies Ltd., London, United Kingdom
Emad Moeendarbary: Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
Emad Moeendarbary: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fcell.2023.1239749
Journal volume & issue: Vol. 11

Abstract

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The interplay between genetic transformations, biochemical communications, and physical interactions is crucial in cancer progression. Metastasis, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, involves a series of steps, including invasion, intravasation, circulation survival, and extravasation. Mechanical alterations, such as changes in stiffness and morphology, play a significant role in all stages of cancer initiation and dissemination. Accordingly, a better understanding of cancer mechanobiology can help in the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Targeting the physical properties of tumours and their microenvironment presents opportunities for intervention. Advancements in imaging techniques and lab-on-a-chip systems enable personalized investigations of tumor biomechanics and drug screening. Investigation of the interplay between genetic, biochemical, and mechanical factors, which is of crucial importance in cancer progression, offers insights for personalized medicine and innovative treatment strategies.

Published in Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology

ISSN: 2296-634X (Online)
Publisher: Frontiers Media S.A.
Country of publisher: Switzerland
LCC subjects: Science: Biology (General)
Website: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cell-and-developmental-biology

About the journal

Abstract

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