Fig. 2: Matrix softening induced astrocyte activation.
From: Matrix stiffness changes affect astrocyte phenotype in an in vitro injury model
a Schematic depiction of matrix softening. b The cell spreading area significantly increased when the matrix was softened after 7 days of culture. c Matrix softening influenced the shape of astrocytes. d, e Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that the activation of astrocytes increased when the matrix was softened after 7 days (red, IL-1β; green, GFAP; blue, nucleus). Scale bar, 50 μm. f Relative protein levels of GFAP determined by Western blotting in astrocytes after 7 days and 14 days of culture.
