Metformin disrupts cancer cell force generation and migration through confined environments

by Kaitlyn Garvey
Cell migration relies on ATP-intensive processes, and energy investment may vary depending on physical obstacles. We used inhibitors that affected ATP production and metabolic signaling to study migration through confined spaces using 3D microfluidic devices. The mitochondrial poison metformin was shown to impair confined migration and decrease P-MLC signaling controlling actin contractility. The results support that targeting cell metabolism can alter cell migration, which could help in design of interventions to limit metastasis in cancer.
Major: 
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Exhibition Category: 
Health and Life Sciences
Exhibition Format: 
Poster Presentation
Campus: 
University Park
Faculty Sponsor: 
Emily Bell
Poster Number: 
2010