Pneumatically driven PDMS micropillars for the investigation of cell-cell interaction

We propose pneumatically driven PDMS micropillars (PDMS actuator) for the investigation of intercellular communication at a single-cell level. Cells usually organize large and complex networks. For detailed investigation of intercellular communication, downsizing the network is important. In this device, cell-sized micropillars are actuated by air pressure so that the adjacent cells on micropillars contact each other at an arbitrary timing. This actuator is also able to give mechanical stretch to coupled cells. We believe that this technology would contribute to the study of single-cell analysis of intercellular communication and the relationship between intercellular communication and mechanical stress.