Mechano-induced cell metabolism disrupts the oxidative stress homeostasis of SAOS-2 osteosarcoma cells

Using LC-MS metabolomics and qPCR, the authors characterized SAOS-2 osteosarcoma cells exposed to cyclic uniaxial stretch (0.5% strain, 1 Hz, 24 h) in the MechanoCulture FX. Mechanical stimulation caused downregulation of glycolysis and TCA cycle pathways while enhancing glutaminolysis and disrupting the methionine cycle. This mechanical stress depleted intracellular glutathione, increased ROS levels, and altered expression of cytoprotective genes (SOD1, SIRT1, Nrf2), sensitizing cells to doxorubicin-induced death.