Mechanical Forces: The Forgotten Dimension of Stem Cell Aging

We focus on chemical signals — but physical forces may be just as important.

Stem cells live in niches with specific mechanical properties: stiffness, topography, shear stress. These mechanical cues directly affect cell fate decisions through the cytoskeleton and YAP/TAZ signaling.

As tissues age, they stiffen. Could this mechanical change be a driver of stem cell dysfunction — not just a consequence?