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Review
. 2010 Apr;17(2):48-54.
doi: 10.3109/15419061.2010.492535.

Directed stem cell differentiation: the role of physical forces

Kelly C Clause  1 , Li J Liu, Kimimasa Tobita
Affiliations
Review

Directed stem cell differentiation: the role of physical forces

Kelly C Clause et al. Cell Commun Adhes. 2010 Apr.

Abstract

A number of factors contribute to the control of stem cell fate. In particular, the evidence for how physical forces control the stem cell differentiation program is now accruing. In this review, the authors discuss the types of physical forces: mechanical forces, cell shape, extracellular matrix geometry/properties, and cell-cell contacts and morphogenic factors, which evidence suggests play a role in influencing stem cell fate.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Schematic of the factors that have been shown to play a role in stem cell differentiation and the possible cellular responses to those factor.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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