Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for treating target cells in a target tissue. The method comprises: determining frequency and magnitude of a periodic force to be applied to the target cells to trigger a mechanically-induced apoptotic process in the target cells; and generating a sequence of programmed cycles of waves to the target tissue to apply the periodic forces to the target cells for a period of time. In some cases, the frequency, magnitude and the period of time are determined based at least in part on the type of target cells or mechanical properties of the target cells.

Abstract: Provided is a method for treating metastatic disease or any other tumor that cannot easily or readily localized or localized at all using immersion mechanotherapy. The method includes providing a vessel containing an amount of medium for immersing at least a portion of a subject, and applying one or more programmed cycles of ultrasound waves to the subject through the medium for a pre-determined period of time. Also provided is a device for implementing the immersion mechanotherapy.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device comprising (a) a substrate having a surface and (b) an ordered array of posts over the surface, wherein the posts are capable of binding a protein or small molecule ligand, and wherein the pitch between adjacent posts is less than about 100 nm. The invention is also directed to methods for identifying the presence of an analyte in a fluid and to methods for measuring relative binding specificity or affinity between an analyte in a fluid and the posts, using the device of the present invention.

Abstract: In various embodiments, the properties of a cross-linkable polymer can be changed by modifying the degree of cross-linking. The degree of cross-linking can be modified on a localized basis using lithographic patterns in which the cross-linkable polymer can be selectively and controllably subjected to charged particles or electromagnetic radiation. The modification of the degree of cross-linking can be applied to substrates having surfaces with varying geometric forms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cytoskeletal system composed of purified components which allow for the identification of key proteins involved in mechanotransduction. The system comprises a cytoskeleton network deficient in force-dependent proteins, exogenous proteins in contact with the cytoskeleton network, a means for applying a force to the cytoskeleton network, and a means for identifying any of the exogenous proteins that bind to the cytoskeleton network when a force is applied to the cytoskeleton network, wherein proteins identified are involved in mechnotransduction. The invention further relates to a method for identifying proteins involved in mechanotransduction using the cytoskeletal system of the present invention. The identification of key players involved in mechanotransduction allows for the identification of agents capable of inhibiting or enhancing mechanotransduction.

Abstract: A method of enhancing host defense mechanisms utilizing xanthines is disclosed.