title: Regulation of cell function by extracellular matrix.
abstract: The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides structural support and adhesive substrates for the body tissues. Recent advances in our understanding of the biology of matrix indicate that the ECM also plays a significant role in regulating the behavior of cells. Matrix proteins engender changes in cell shape and movement, bind growth factors, and facilitate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Matrix-induced differentiation results from multiple stimuli that include: tensile forces on the cell, cytokine- or growth factor-mediated stimulation, and interaction with bioactive domains of matrix glycoproteins. Because these signals are important determinants of cell behavior, pharmacological manipulation of cell-matrix interactions may offer a valuable new approach to disease treatment.
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Developmental Biology, National Institute of Dental Research, Bethesda, Maryland.
authors.forename: H W
authors.initials: HW
authors.lastname: Schnaper
authors.forename: H K
authors.initials: HK
authors.lastname: Kleinman
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002468:Cell Physiological Phenomena; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans