Effect of binary mechanical environment on T cell function.

T cells, key players in the immune system, recognize antigens via T-cell receptors (TCRs) and require additional costimulatory and cytokine signals for full activation. Beyond biochemical signals, T cells also respond to mechanical cues such as tissue stiffness. Traditional ex-vivo mechanostimulating platforms, however, present a uniform mechanical environment, unlike the heterogeneous conditions T cells encounter in-vivo.

Elastic Microstructures: Combining Biochemical, Mechanical, and Topographical Cues for the Effective Activation and Proliferation of Cytotoxic T Cells.

The ex vivo activation and proliferation of cytotoxic T cells are critical steps in adoptive immunotherapy. Today, T cells are activated by stimulation with antibody-coated magnetic beads, traditionally used for cell separation. Yet, efficient and controlled activation and proliferation of T cells require new antibody-bearing materials, which, in particular, deliver mechanical and topographic cues sensed by T cells.