Cells get nutrients by diffusion through a dialysis membrane. Based upon the above criterion what kind of stress do cells undergo in this environment? Specifically metabolic stress. Valuable suggestion will be appreciated.
Cells experience shear stress if the liquid in the channel is flowing. That means the flow in the channel centre is stronger than close to the boundaries. This results in a net force gradient to a cell sitting at the wall. This stress deforms the cell membrane and may even destroy it easily. If applied in a gentle manner it also could provoke directed cell migration. Shear stress is an important factor for cell growth in blood vessels and also for heart morphogenesis. Please contact me if you need help about realizing controlled shear stress. Best regards, Claus