Cell Fragments: Cell Fragment Formation, Migration, and Force Exertion on Extracellular Mimicking Fiber Nanonets (Adv. Biology 6/2021)

In article number 2000592, Amrinder S. Nain and co-workers report the spontaneous formation of a nuclear cytoplasmic fragments pinching off from cells during migration on extracellular matrix mimicking suspended fibrous networks. Classically studied on flat 2D, fragments on suspended fibers show unique behaviors. Fragments undergo dynamic shape changes capable of extending multiple protrusions and exhibit oscillatory migratory behavior. Contractility measurement of individual fragments can be utilized to devise potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Cover art by Parrish Lee at Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Tech.