Mechanics of Living Cells and Nanoscale Materials
Saif Lab
“This week, MechSE and The Grainger College of Engineering community celebrated a new named appointment for Professor Taher Saif. In an investiture ceremony held in the Beckman Institute Auditorium, he formally received his new distinction as a Grainger Distinguished Chair in Engineering.“
Read the full article here: Saif honored by Grainger Engineering for career of prominence
“Saif’s project, “A high throughput stiffness sensor for testing efficacy of chemo and CAR-T cell therapy for pancreatic cancer,” focuses on understanding and manipulating the tumor microenvironment to improve the efficacy of pancreatic cancer treatment. His research examines the mechanical stiffness of the cells in the tumor microenvironment.”
Read the full article here: Saif aims to improve efficacy of pancreatic cancer treatment
Abstract
“Cell–matrix interactions, mediated by cellular force and matrix remodeling, result in dynamic reciprocity that drives numerous biological processes and disease progression. Currently, there is no available method for directly quantifying cell traction force and matrix remodeling in three-dimensional matrices as a function of time. To address this long-standing need, we developed a high-resolution microfabricated device that enables longitudinal measurement of cell force, matrix stiffness and the application of mechanical stimulation (tension or compression) to cells. Here a specimen comprising of cells and matrix self-assembles and self-integrates with the sensor. With primary fibroblasts, cancer cells and neurons we have demonstrated the feasibility of the sensor by measuring single or multiple cell force with a resolution of 1 nN and changes in tissue stiffness due to matrix remodeling by the cells. The sensor can also potentially be translated into a high-throughput system for clinical assays such as patient-specific drug and phenotypic screening. We present the detailed protocol for manufacturing the sensors, preparing experimental setup, developing assays with different tissues and for imaging and analyzing the data. Apart from microfabrication of the molds in a cleanroom (one time operation), this protocol does not require any specialized skillset and can be completed within 4–5 h.”
Read full publication in Nature Protocols here: A multifunctional sensor for cell traction force, matrix remodeling and biomechanical assays in self-assembled 3D tissues in vitro
Congrats to Dr. Emon, Joy, and William!
“Three MechSE faculty are among the 16 Illinois researchers who were selected to become part of the inaugural cohort of Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago investigators. The 48-member group, which will focus on instrumented tissues, inflammation, and the functions of the immune system, also includes investigators from Northwestern University and University of Chicago.
“Professors Bumsoo Han, Taher Saif and Amy Wagoner Johnson all have projects funded by the initiative.”
Read the full article here: Three from MechSE selected to inaugural cohort of Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago
“Taher Saif, the Edward William and Jane Marr Gutgsell Professor in the Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). He was elected “for characterizing mechanical properties of materials at small scales, with applications in materials science and biology.”
Read the full article here: Saif elected to National Academy of Engineering