Mechanical and Biochemical Interplay between Cells and Their Microenvironment

Dear Colleagues,

In vivo, cells are embedded in the extracellular matrix (ECM) a specialized and dynamic 3D network composed of a multitude of fibrous and non-fibrous proteins. The various components of ECM form complex networks that communicate with cells via transmembrane receptors, notably those of the integrin family. The ECM provides biochemical and mechanical signals regulating key features of cells like proliferation, migration, differentiation, apoptosis or metabolism; conversely, cells can modulate ECM structure and composition. Alterations of this reciprocal interplay are observed in various diseases notably cancer thus impairing tissue homeostasis. 

In this special issue, we welcome the submission of manuscripts investigating original mechanisms responsible for the (dys)regulations of cell-ECM crosstalk in various pathophysiological contexts including cancer. We are especially, but not exclusively, interested in manuscripts describing how ECM structure and/or composition are altered and how cells sense and respond to altered ECM.  Manuscripts dealing with cell-ECM mechanobiology, ECM-modifying enzymes or describing new therapeutic strategies aiming at modifying ECM structure and composition as well as review papers are warmly welcome.

Dr. Christophe Deroanne
Guest Editor

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