Whole field living cell mapping using diffraction moiré sensor

Mechanical forces developed by cells to their surrounding extracellular matrix environments are fundamental to many physiological processes, such as cell growth, division, migration, and apoptosis. Previous cell force mapping technique requires individually tracking the deformable sensors where the cell were cultured on. In this paper, a novel optical moire based biomechanol force sensor was developed for cell traction force mapping. We utilized coherent laser beams to illuminate periodic polymeric substrates where isolated cells were cultured. We demonstrated one-dimensional and two-dimensional traction force mapping via optical moire for vascular smooth muscle cells. The magnification effect of the moire fringe pattern permits a real time monitoring of the mechanical interaction between isolated cells and their underlying periodic polymeric structures.