Figure 8:

Conceptual model on how different mechanosensors may sense different strain and stress. Upper row: When the cell is in solution, the surface mechanosensors (yellow circle with spring) are not under transverse stress and surface traction.

Lower row: When the cell is contracting in 3-D viscoelastic environment, the surface mechanosensors are under transverse compression and shear stresses. The internal mechanosensors (green circle with spring) are under longitudinal tension during stretch or compression during contraction.