Mechanics in the nervous system: From development to disease

Pillai EK, Franze K (2023)

Publication Language: English

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2023

Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.10.005

Abstract

Physical forces are ubiquitous in biological processes across scales and diverse contexts. This review highlights the significance of mechanical forces in nervous system development, homeostasis, and disease. We provide an overview of mechanical signals present in the nervous system and delve into mechanotransduction mechanisms translating these mechanical cues into biochemical signals. During development, mechanical cues regulate a plethora of processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, network formation, and cortex folding. Forces then continue exerting their influence on physiological processes, such as neuronal activity, glial cell function, and the interplay between these different cell types. Notably, changes in tissue mechanics manifest in neurodegenerative diseases and brain tumors, potentially offering new diagnostic and therapeutic target opportunities. Understanding the role of cellular forces and tissue mechanics in nervous system physiology and pathology adds a new facet to neurobiology, shedding new light on many processes that remain incompletely understood.

Authors with CRIS profile

Kristian Franze Lehrstuhl für Medizinische Physik und Mikrogewebetechnik

Additional Organisation(s)

Sonderforschungsbereich 1540: Erforschung der Mechanik des Gehirns (EBM): Verständnis, Engineering und Nutzung mechanischer Eigenschaften und Signale in der Entwicklung, Physiologie und Pathologie des zentralen Nervensystems

Involved external institutions

University of Cambridge

United Kingdom (GB)

How to cite

APA:

Pillai, E.K., & Franze, K. (2023). Mechanics in the nervous system: From development to disease. Neuron. https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2023.10.005

MLA:

Pillai, Eva K., and Kristian Franze. "Mechanics in the nervous system: From development to disease." Neuron (2023).

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