Thinking big by thinking small: advances in mechanobiology across the length scales

Abstract

The field of mechanobiology provides an integrative understanding of biology and engineering principles. Mechanical forces are now well-established to provide a physical stimulus to help maintain normal tissue function, yet little is understood as to how forces experienced at various length scales influence cell behaviour and tissue function. In this Research Highlight, we describe recent technical innovations that have enabled advanced insight into the cellular microenvironment across a range of length scales.