An historical perspective on cell mechanics

The physical properties of the protoplasm have long been of interest, and today, several intricate methods, including atomic force microscopy, have been employed in studies of cellular mechanics. However, many current concepts and experimental approaches actually have their beginnings over 300 years ago. Unfortunately, these pioneering studies have been all but forgotten. In this paper, we have reviewed some of the early literature on cellular mechanics to place modern work within an historical framework. It is clear that with current nanoscience approaches, modern experiments employing cell indentation, manipulation, particle rheology and micro- or nano-needle poking are now quantifying mechanical properties which were only qualitatively described 100 years ago. Aside from the variety of approaches our predecessors have employed to understand cellular mechanics, we feel an understanding of the past will help to propel nanoscience into the future. As nanophysiology and nanomedicine are developing, we as a community should take time to consider the early roots of these fields.