Understanding mechanobiology – Linking the mechanical stimulation to cellular response

Abstract

Mechanical loading plays a crucial role throughout humans’ lifetime since their embryonic development up to the tissues’ homeostasis. Depending on the cell type and location, these mechanical stimuli regulate specific cell functions, namely gene expression, cell growth, differentiation and death. Cells are highly dynamic and it still remains unclear how cells sense these forces and convert them into biochemical responses. This review aims to provide an introductory research of the load-sensitive cells’ mechanobiology present in the bone tissue. Subsequently, this study will contribute to design novel orthopedic implants that overcome their current impaired fixation to the natural bone.