Mechanobiology of metastatic cancer

Abstract This chapter presents an overview of the process of cancer metastasis from a mechanobiological perspective and provides a summary of current cytomechanobiology techniques that are, or may be, used to evaluate cancer cell mechanobiology. We begin by defining cell structure, cell mechanics, and the interactions that cells have with their microenvironment. Then, we describe the different modes of cancer cell migration and the various stimuli that may drive them. Next, we outline the steps of metastasis emphasizing the different mechanical factors/processes involved. The next part of the chapter introduces several in vitro methods available for evaluating cytomechanobiology of metastatic cells, including numerous examples. We focus on mechanics assays, migration assays (experimental and mathematical modeling), and cell strength evaluation assays. Finally, we highlight novel and cutting-edge techniques for determining the metastatic potential of cells, based on the cell's mechanobiology.