An improved image analysis method for micropattern traction microscopy: dot tracking and traction force calculation script protocols v1

The dot tracking script takes timelapse images of fluorescent micropatterns and determines the frame-by-frame displacement of each fluorescent dot. From these displacement values, the traction force calculation script calculates the corresponding traction force values using the known material properties of the gel being imaged, as described in Equation 2 of the main text. It can also plot either traction or displacement maps, user’s choice. Final x and y displacement vectors (taken from dot displacement script and thresholded based on the chosen displacement threshold value) are saved to the variables “x_dis_final_thresh” and “y_dis_final_thresh,” and the magnitude of these vectors is saved to “magD.” Unbalanced traction force vectors are saved to “T1” and “T2,” while balanced traction force vectors (for static equilibrium) are saved to “feX” and “feY,” respectively. The magnitudes of the unbalanced and balanced traction force vectors are saved to “magT_UB” and “magT_B,” respectively.