Tissue mechanics in stem cell fate, development, and cancer

Cells in tissues experience a plethora of forces that regulate their fate and modulate development and homeostasis. Cells sense mechanical cues through localized mechanoreceptors or by influencing cytoskeletal or plasma membrane organization. Cells translate force and modulate their behavior through a process termed mechanotransduction. Cells tune their tension upon exposure to chronic force by engaging cellular machinery that modulates actin...