cellECM

CellECM denotes the collective interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix, the network of proteins and polysaccharides that fills the space around cells. These interactions regulate adhesion, signaling, migration, proliferation, and differentiation, and are essential for tissue development and homeostasis.

The ECM comprises structural proteins such as collagens, elastin, fibronectin, and laminins, as well as proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans. Cells engage ECM primarily through receptors like integrins and discoidin domain receptors, which transduce signals to the cytoskeleton and gene expression.

ECM remodeling is dynamic. Matrix metalloproteinases and other proteases degrade matrix components, while cross-linking enzymes stabilize or stiffen matrices. The mechanical properties of the ECM, including stiffness and topography, influence cell fate through mechanotransduction.

Roles in biology and disease: during development and wound healing, cellECM coordination guides morphogenesis and repair. Altered ECM composition or mechanics is linked to fibrosis, cancer invasion, and metastasis, where cells migrate along ECM fibers and invade surrounding tissue.

Applications include tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, where biomaterials aim to mimic native ECM to direct cell behavior. Model systems, such as 3D hydrogels and decellularized matrices, are used to study cellECM interactions in controlled settings.

Further study uses imaging and biophysical methods, including traction force microscopy and atomic force microscopy, to quantify forces, stiffness, and adhesions that underpin cellECM dynamics.