Application and direct measurements of forces on neurons in the 2-1000 microdyne range are achieved with high precision using calibrated glass needles. This methodology can be used to control and measure several aspects of axonal development, including axonal initiation, axonal tension, velocity of axonal elongation, and force vectors.
Lamoureux, P., Heidemann, S., Miller, K. E. Mechanical Manipulation of Neurons to Control Axonal Development. J. Vis. Exp. (50), e2509, doi:10.3791/2509 (2011).