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Abstract
The ultrastructural and mechanical properties of single resting, activated and apoptosis
lymphocyte have been investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Using topographic
imaging, we showed that the surface of the resting lymphocyte is smooth, while lymphocyte
activation and apoptosis are often accompanied by changes in cell morphology. The
apoptosis lymphocyte is rougher than those of the two other morphotypes, and coated
with many big particles. Using spatially resolved force-distance curves, we found
that the valve of the activated lymphocyte is about two to three times stiffer (Young's
modulus of approximately 20 kPa) than those of the two other morphotypes (5-11 kPa).
These results can improve our understanding of the mechanical properties of cells
during growth and differentiation.