Mechanotransduction Flashcards
1
Q
Define ‘mechanotransduction’.
A
The process whereby mechanical stimuli are converted into biological responses within target
cells.
2
Q
List the 5 types of stresses.
A
- compression (squashing)
- tension (stretching)
- torsion (twisting)
- shear (parallel forces)
- combined loading (combination of all stresses)
3
Q
List the 3 phases of mechanotransduction.
A
- Mechanocoupling.
- Cell-cell communication.
- Effector response.
4
Q
What is the ‘mechanocoupling’ phase?
A
- A load will cause a physical perturbation to tissue.
- The forces mechanically stress and deform the cells that make up the tissue.
- Resulting in a response within the cells.
5
Q
What is the ‘cell-to-cell communication’ phase?
A
- Neighbouring cells communicate information about the mechanical stimulus encountered by the tissue.
- Intercellular communication occurs between cells even if they have not directly experienced the force.
6
Q
What is the ‘effector cell response’ phase?
A
- Effector cells respond by up-regulating protein synthesis to drive adaptation.
- The nuclues will receive tugging and chemical messenger signals.
- The nuclues will become engaged.
- mRNA is transcribed and translated in the endoplasmic reticulum.
- A protein product will be excreted and incorporated into the extracellular matrix.
7
Q
What does mechanotransduction/loading do to ligaments?
A
- Increased cross-sectional area.
- Increased strength.
- Increased stiffness, resistance to deformation.
8
Q
What does mechanotransduction/loading do to cartilage?
A
- Increases proteoglycan content.
- Increases cartilage thickness.
- Increases stiffness.
9
Q
What can underloading do to ligaments?
A
- Reduced cross-sectional area.
- Reduced stiffness, resistance to deformation.
- Reduces strength.
10
Q
What can underloading do to cartilage?
A
- Reduces proteoglycan content.
- Reduces thickness.
- Reduces stiffness.
