Living machines that respond to external force Medal winner enhances understanding of cartilage cells

摘要

Recent studies have revealed that biological celts alter their behaviour in response to externally applied mechanical loading. This is particularly true of chondrocytes, the cells that create and maintain the cartilage lining in our joints. Dynamic loading of these cells promotes the production of proteins that are essential for healthy cartilage whereas prolonged static loading inhibits the production of essential proteins.