Decoupling Cell and Matrix Mechanics in Engineered Microtissues Using Magnetically Actuated Microcantilevers

A novel bio-magnetomechanical microtissue system is described for magnetic actuation of arrays of 3D microtissues using microcantilevers. This system enables both in situ measurements of fundamental mechanical properties of engineered tissue, such as contractility and stiffness, as well as dynamic stimulation of the microtissues. Using this system, cell and extracellular matrix contributions to the tissue mechanical properties are decoupled for the first time under both static and dynamic loading conditions. As a service to our authors and readers, this journal provides supporting information supplied by the authors. Such materials are peer reviewed and may be re-organized for online delivery, but are not copy-edited or typeset. Technical support issues arising from supporting information (other than missing files) should be addressed to the authors. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.