Mimicking Vascular Mechanics: Endothelial Response to Dynamic Deformation on a Hybrid Membrane

Endothelial cells (ECs) are constantly exposed to mechanical forces including shear stress and cyclic strain in vivo. This study explored how ECs respond to radial and 3D cyclic stretching using a collagen-based hybrid membrane system and a pneumatic control (MPSstimulus) to mimic dynamic mechanical conditions. Although deformation of the cell substrate was very low and occurred mainly at the polymer mesh that stabilized the collagen matrix, ECs still showed notable changes such as increased stress fiber formation and cell number. These results highlight the sensitivity of ECs to even minor mechanical cues in 3D environments. Overall, the study underscores the importance of integrating threedimensional mechanical forces in the design of in vitro vascular models.