The fibrous cellular microenvironment, and how cells make sense of a tangled web

The Balance between Actomyosin Contractility and Microtubule Polymerization Regulates Hierarchical Protrusions That Govern Efficient Fibroblast–Collagen Interactions

“…Fibroblasts are the most common type of animal cells in connective tissues, and their interactions with their surrounding collagen matrices have been shown to affect cellular function and morphology. , The ways that fibroblasts interact with extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins are critically important across a range of pathologies, including fibrosis and surgical adhesions . Actomyosin contractility-driven tension generated at the cell–matrix interface has an important effect on how fibroblasts interact with the ECM in which they are embedded. − For example, mechanical tension has been found to play important roles in both wound healing and fibrosis and to promote the differentiation of fibroblasts into more contractile myofibroblasts. , Because mechanical tension has such significant effects on cellular function, morphology, and phenotype, it is important to know the different mechanisms that can alter it. Recent studies report that the generation of tension can be affected by collagen concentration, matrix constraints, matrix pore size, growth factors, nonlinear stiffening behavior of the ECM, and cell density.…”

Comprehensive multiplexed superfusion system enables physiological emulation in cell culture: exemplification by persistent circadian entrainment

“…The complex multifactorial nature of cellular microenvironment is increasingly recognized as of central importance in many physiological and pathophysiological processes. 1–5 The accuracy of representation of the native tissue microenvironment is fundamental for the fidelity of biomedical/biological research, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine development. The cellular microenvironment comprises biophysical cues ( i.e.…”

Graphene Hybrid Materials for Controlling Cellular Microenvironments

“…Cells experience growth within the cell microenvironment [ 1 , 2 ]. Specifically, the cellular microenvironment contains the extracellular matrix and is composed of various types of proteins.…”