Researchers use Lego to simulate cell mechanics

Equipped with a wheel and wired to a battery, this yellow and gray tool constructed from 326 pieces of Lego contains a silicone box in which cultured cells are stretched. — AFP Relaxnews

Use Lego parts to reproduce mechanical stresses on human cells. This was the original idea devised by a team of Inserm scientists to offset the very costly human and material resources required for research of this type.

Reproducing the mechanical parameters of the environment in which cells develop represents a major challenge for cell biology researchers, as these processes are based on physical principles that go beyond their field of expertise. In addition, the equipment needed to perform such work is often very expensive to purchase and maintain.