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Demonstration of intermolecular forces in cell adhesion using a new electrochemical technique

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Abstract

THE problem of cell adhesion has been approached from both chemical1–3 and physical4,5 viewpoints. We present here new evidence that a purely physical attraction acts between cells and other surfaces and that electrostatic forces can overcome this attraction. Previous attempts to demonstrate and interpret such forces6–8 have largely been frustrated by inadequately defined test surfaces, biological media including complex macromolecular components, and inappropriate assays for cell adhesion.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biology as Applied to Medicine, The Middlesex Hospital Medical School, London, W1P 6DB, UK

    D. GINGELL & J. A. FORNES

  2. Department de Fisica, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Box 67, La Plata, Argentina

    J. A. FORNES

Authors
  1. D. GINGELL
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  2. J. A. FORNES
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GINGELL, D., FORNES, J. Demonstration of intermolecular forces in cell adhesion using a new electrochemical technique. Nature 256, 210–211 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1038/256210a0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/256210a0

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