Coupled mechanical mapping and interference contrast microscopy reveal viscoelastic and adhesion hallmarks of monocyte differentiation into macrophages
Mar Eroles, Javier López-Alonso, Alexandre Ortega, Thomas Boudier, Khaldoun Gharzeddine, Frank Lafont, Clemens M. Franz, Arnaud Millet, Claire Valotteau, Félix Rico
Abstract
) on differentiated cells that correlated with increased adhesion area. These changes were enhanced in macrophages with a spread phenotype. Remarkably, when adhesion was perturbed, differentiated macrophages remained stiffer and more solid-like than monocytes, suggesting a permanent reorganization of the cytoskeleton. We speculate that the stiffer and more solid-like microvilli and lamellipodia might help macrophages to minimize energy dissipation during mechanosensitive activities. Thus, our results revealed viscoelastic and adhesion hallmarks of monocyte differentiation that may be important for biological function.