title: Directed stem cell differentiation: the role of physical forces.
abstract: A number of factors contribute to the control of stem cell fate. In particular, the evidence for how physical forces control the stem cell differentiation program is now accruing. In this review, the authors discuss the types of physical forces: mechanical forces, cell shape, extracellular matrix geometry/properties, and cell-cell contacts and morphogenic factors, which evidence suggests play a role in influencing stem cell fate.
authors.affiliation: Cardiovascular Development Research Program, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
authors.forename: Kelly C
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Clause
authors.forename: Li J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Liu
authors.forename: Kimimasa
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Tobita
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D048430:Cell Shape; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical