In this paper new technical aspects are discussed in the measurement o
f the low amount of force typically expressed in cultured endothelial
cells. We illustrate how potential background noises interfere with si
gnal acquisition. We present a new generation prototype that measures
isometric tension in vitro in multiple samples and in more than one is
ometric vector. We report that thrombin increases isometric tension in
at least two separate vectors that are directed in opposite direction
s. We also report that phorbol ester dibutyrate can randomly mediate a
false relaxation (anisotropic contraction) in cultured PPAEC, when th
e force vector is directed opposite to the referenced isometric vector
of the transducer. In contrast, stimulation of cultured HUVEC with th
e cAMP agonists, theophylline and forskolin, decreased isometric force
in both vectors. Thus, direction of the force vector needs to be cons
idered when interpreting isometric tension in cultured endothelial cel
ls. (C) 1997 Academic Press.