Extracellular matrix macromolecular components

Receptors (adhesion receptors) that interact with macromolecular components of the extracellular matrix (such as collagen) and convey to the cytoskeletal system instructions on cell migration or adherence to the matrix. Integrins (discussed in Chapter 10) illustrate this general type of transduction mechanism. 

Owing to their stmctural similarity to the macromolecular-based components in the body (and their biocompatibility, permeability, and physical characteristics), hydrogels can also serve as a synthetic extracellular matrix (ECM) to organize cultured cells into a three-dimensional architecture and to present stimuli that direct the growth and formation of a desired tissue [33]. The balance between mechanical properties and controlled degradation of hydrogels mainly depends on the original... 

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