Single-cell mechanics: the parallel plates technique

We describe here the parallel plates technique which enables quantifying single-cell mechanics, either passive (cell deformability) or active (whole-cell traction forces). Based on the bending of glass microplates of calibrated stiffness, it is easy to implement on any microscope, and benefits from protocols and equipment already used in biology labs (coating of glass slides, pipette pullers, micromanipulators, etc.). We first present the principle of the technique, the design and calibration of the microplates, and various surface coatings corresponding to different cell-substrate interactions. Then we detail the specific cell preparation for the assays, and the different mechanical assays that can be carried out. Finally, we discuss the possible technical simplifications and the specificities of each mechanical protocol, as well as the possibility of extending the use of the parallel plates to investigate the mechanics of cell aggregates or tissues.