Plant roots continuously respond to the physical and chemical conditions around them, yet the effects of fluid flow on root development remain difficult to study quantitatively. Conventional soil and hydroponic experiments provide limited control over the mechanical forces experienced by individual roots, particularly at the...
Studying interactions between bacteria and mammalian cells is important for understanding the microbiome, infection, inflammation, and other biological processes. However, recreating these interactions in vitro is challenging because the two cell types have very different culture requirements. Mammalian cells often need an adhesive matrix, while...
Rapid detection of thrombin and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is useful for very different clinical needs, from monitoring coagulation-related conditions to screening for viral antigens. However, many established assays require repeated washing, long processing times, trained personnel, and powered laboratory equipment. These limitations make it difficult...
Blood is difficult to recreate in the lab because its flow behavior is not controlled by plasma alone. Much of its complexity comes from red blood cells, which deform, interact with one another, migrate within vessels, and respond strongly to confinement. This becomes especially...
Cell membrane damage is deeply connected to many diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. The plasma membrane controls transport, signaling, ion balance, and cellular homeostasis, so even subtle changes in membrane integrity can have major biological consequences. The challenge is that many...