How Does Mechanical Stress Affect Cellular Function?
Cells within tissues are subjected to various mechanical forces, such as tension, compression, and shear stress. These forces are sensed by cells through mechanoreceptors and transduced into biochemical signals in a process known as mechanotransduction. For instance, endothelial cells lining blood vessels respond to shear stress from blood flow by aligning themselves in the direction of flow, which is critical for vascular health. Conversely, abnormal mechanical stress can contribute to pathologies like atherosclerosis and osteoarthritis.
