IntroductionIn surface aspects, we discuss important biology lessons that are required for understanding cell-material adhesion. This chapter discusses the basics of the extracellular matrix (ECM), protein structure and adsorption to surfaces, and cellular communication and signaling proteins. It finally gives a review of current engineered cell adhesion technologies. These lessons are critical to understanding how to engineer biomaterial surfaces for use in both in vitro and in vivo applications.
The Extracellular MatrixThis section provides a brief overview of the ECM and its functions. This overview provides knowledge important to understand the composition of the ECM and engineer synthetic ECMs to tune cell-fate-based processes.ECMs are composed of a complex, insoluble, three-dimensional mixture of secreted macromolecules, including collagens and noncollagenous proteins, such as elastin and fibronectin (FN), glycosaminoglycans, and proteoglycans, which are present between cells [1]. In addition, provisional fibrin-based networks constitute specialized matrices for wound healing and tissue repair. The ECM's function is to provide structure and order to the extracellular space and regulate multiple functions associated with the establishment, maintenance, and remodeling of differentiated tissues [2]. Matrix components such as FN and laminin mediate adhesive interactions that support cell anchorage, migration, and tissue organization. These all serve to activate signaling pathways that direct cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation.ECM components can interact with growth and differentiation factors, chemokines, and other soluble factors that regulate cell cycle progression and differentiation to control their availability and activity. By using various strategies to immobilize and order these proteins (ligands), ECMs control the spatial and Biomimetic Approaches for Biomaterials Development, First Edition. Edited by João F. Mano.