Recently, Peking University, Beijing, China, celebrated three major publications featuring FluidFM technology, listed below in chronological order:
- Quiescent cancer cells induced by high-density cultivation reveals cholesterol-mediated survival and lung metastatic traits, British Journal of Cancer, October 11, 2024;
- Suppression of non-muscle myosin II boosts T cell, Science Advances, November 1, 2024;
- Bacterial–host adhesion dominated by collagen subtypes remodelled by osmotic pressure, npj Biofilms and Microbiome, November 12, 2024.
These groundbreaking studies all leverage the FluidFM technology to measure adhesion forces at the single-cell level, showcasing its versatility in exploring cell interactions across various systems. What makes these achievements particularly exciting is that they were made possible using the FluidFM OMNIUM platform, currently installed in just one lab at Peking University.
We are thrilled to highlight these groundbreaking studies in this article!
Article 1: FluidFM Technology Reveals Cancer Cells’ Survival Code
A study by Prof. Zhan Qimin’s team highlights how cholesterol plays a key role in the metastasis of lung cancer cells. The research reveals that the CDC25A gene enhances cholesterol metabolism via endosomal pathways in quiescent cancer cells, significantly altering their cytoskeletal and membrane properties. These changes improve their resistance to mechanical forces in the circulatory system, thereby promoting lung caner metastasis.
Using FluidFM, researchers measured adhesion forces between resting cancer cells. By precisely controlling liquid pressure within microfluidic channels, they simulated crowded environments, assessing cell membrane stiffness and fluidity. This innovative approach unveiled how cells adapt their mechanical properties to survive in harsh conditions.
Additionally, the study demonstrated the critical role of the CDC25A gene in maintaining and exiting the quiescent state, highlighting FluidFM’s utility in studying cellular communication, migration, and tumor invasiveness.
This breakthrough is an example of how advanced micromanipulation technology, such as FluidFM, can address key biological questions.
From the publication, graphical summary: High-density cultivation induces quiescence (G0), enhancing shear stress resistance and facilitating metastasis. CDC25A drives cholesterol metabolism via the endosome pathway, strengthening the cytoskeleton and membrane properties. FluidFM and AFM analyses demonstrate increased mechanical resistance.
Article 2: Unlocking T Cell Cytotoxicity with FluidFM
A team led by Professors Xiong Chunyang and Li Kailong from Peking University, in collaboration with Dr. Liu Yuying from the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, found that inhibiting non-muscle myosin II (NM II) enhances T cell traction forces and increases tumor cell cytotoxicity.
Through advanced FluidFM technology, researchers explored the mechanical mechanisms behind T cell-mediated tumor destruction. The study revealed that partial inhibition of NM II significantly improved T cells' mechanical properties, enabling them to more effectively penetrate tumor cells and release cytotoxic particles.
This discovery not only deepens our understanding of T cell mechanics but also offers new strategies for enhancing immunotherapy by improving T cell functionality through targeted NM II inhibition, emphasizing its role as a powerful tool for immunotherapy research.
From the publication, Fig. 2. Blocking NM II enhances the traction force exerted by T cells.
Article 3: FluidFM Sheds Light on Collagen Remodeling in Bacteria-Host Adhesion
In a groundbreaking study, Prof. Jianyong Huang’s team at Peking University revealed how osmotic pressure induces conformational changes in collagen isoforms, which play a dominant role in bacterial adhesion to host cells. These findings provide new insights into bacterial infection mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
FluidFM enabled researchers to quantify forces at the single-cell level with unprecedented precision, leading to breakthroughs in understanding bacterial-host interactions and enabling detailed investigations into bacterial infections, host defense mechanisms, and viral synergy.
From the publication, Fig. 3: Quantification of interfacial adhesion forces between bacteria and host cell monolayers prestimulated with hypotonic (0.5× and 0.75×), isotonic (1×), and hypertonic (1.5× and 2×) solutions.
Outlook
These three high-impact studies demonstrate FluidFM’s versatility and transformative potential across multiple fields. As research deepens and technology advances, FluidFM is poised to become a leading force in modern science, contributing to breakthroughs in cancer research, immunotherapy, microbial pathogenesis, and beyond.
The collaboration between Cytosurge and Quantum Design China ensures that this cutting-edge technology continues to empower scientists across North and East China, fostering innovation and discovery.
We eagerly anticipate future innovations powered by FluidFM technology, driving scientific progress and delivering solutions for humanity’s most pressing challenges.
Original article by Quantum Design China (QDC). Translated and republished with permission from QDC. Source: https://www.caigou.com.cn/news/202412132.shtml
Triple Hit From Peking University, China!
Single-Cell Mechanics Achieves Three Groundbreaking Milestones, Highlighting the Growing Impact of FluidFM Technology