Differentiation is the process by which a cell activates the expression of tissue-specific genes, downregulates the expression of potency markers, and acquires the phenotypic characteristics of its mature fate. The signals that regulate differentiation include biochemical and mechanical factors within the surrounding microenvironment. We describe recent breakthroughs in our understanding of the mechanical control mechanisms that regulate differentiation, with a specific emphasis on the differentiation events that build the early mouse embryo. Engineering approaches that reproducibly mimic the mechanical regulation of differentiation will permit new insights into early development and applications in regenerative medicine.

中文翻译：

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细胞分化的机械控制：来自早期胚胎的见解

分化是细胞激活组织特异性基因的表达、下调效能标记的表达并获得其成熟命运的表型特征的过程。调节分化的信号包括周围微环境内的生化和机械因素。我们描述了我们对调节分化的机械控制机制的理解的最新突破，特别强调了构建早期小鼠胚胎的分化事件。可重复地模仿分化的机械调节的工程方法将为再生医学的早期开发和应用提供新的见解。