Pressure-induced changes on the morphology and gene expression in mammalian cells

We have been developed high-pressure techniques for controlling cell activities [1, 2]. Here, we evaluated the effect of high hydrostatic pressure on mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells [3]. Hydrostatic pressures of 15, 30, 60, and 90 MPa were applied for 10 min, and changes in gene expression were evaluated. Among genes related to mechanical stimuli, death-associated protein 3 was upregulated in MEF subjected to 90 MPa pressure; however, other genes known to be upregulated by mechanical stimuli did not change significantly.