Understanding stem cell interactions with extracellular matrix molecules

5 Understanding stem cell interactions with extracellular matrix molecules 

In mapping the complex molecular regulators involved in maintaining the stem cell niche, various biomaterial approaches have been adopted to identify cellular behaviour 

The technique of silane modification on glass substrates results in the production of defined and organized substrates with specific surface chemistries and energies [133,134]. For instance, polydimethylsiloxane-coated slides have been used to spot ECM and signalling molecules including cadherin, laminin and JAGl [132]. Indeed, specific combinations of these ECM factors were found to enhance the differentiation of mammary progenitor cells into myoepithelial and luminal epithelial cells. 

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