Measuring Cellular Contraction: Current Progress And A Future In Bioelectronics

Cellular contraction is a universal phenomenon that drives various processes in the body. As such, measurement of cell contractility is of great interest to the scientific community. However, contracting cells apply very small stresses, which can be difficult to monitor. Various techniques have been developed to overcome these issues, with resolutions extending to the single cell level. Despite significant progress in this field, many limitations remain, including the ability to measure contraction instantaneously and in vivo. Bioelectronics involve the application of electric fields or electrically responsive materials for measurement or stimulation in biology. Bioelectronic devices have the major potential to overcome some of the remaining challenges in monitoring cell contraction, given their ability to provide fast, non-invasive measurements. In this forward-looking perspective, we will discuss the development of contractile measurement technologies as well as new areas that require growth and the potential for application of bioelectronics in this field.