FIG. 2.

Mechanical strain enhances OSC differentiation. Rate of IVD oocyte formation by OSCs at 8 (A), 32 (B), or 56 (C) h following the application of radial strain at the indicated levels. While 10.5% elongation increased in vitro oogenesis at both 32 and 56 h poststrain, lower levels of strain (4.6%–5.5%) were without effect at any time point tested. However, repeated application of a subthreshold level of strain (5.5%) 10 times in succession increased rates of IVD oocyte formation (C). Results are the mean ± SEM from three independent experiments. *P < 0.05 compared with the 0% elongation group, **P < 0.01 compared with the 0% elongation group. IVD, in vitro derived; OSC, oogonial stem cell.