Interplay between extracellular matrix mechanics and cell function in mechanobiology

Tissues are composites of cells and extracellular matrix that interact with each other both chemically and mechanically to form functioning organs with defined chemical and physical properties. Changes in the physical properties of the extracellular matrix often alter the function of cells, and reciprocally, modified cell function remodels the extracellular matrix in a complex iterative process that mediates normal development, wound healing, and pathological dysfunction. Recent advances in studying how cells and matrix physically interact with each other reveal new aspects of tissue and matrix mechanics and identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention in pathologic settings.