Understanding cell-extracellular matrix interactions for topology-guided tissue regeneration

Tissues are made up of cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) which surrounds them. These cells and tissues are actively adaptable to enduring significant stress that occurs in daily life. This astonishing mechanical stress develops due to the interaction between the live cells and the non-living ECM. Cells in the matrix microenvironment can sense the signals and forces produced and initiate a signaling cascade that plays a crucial role in the body's normal functioning and influences various properties of the native cells, including growth, proliferation, and differentiation. However, the matrix's characteristic features also impact the repair and regeneration of the damaged tissues. The current study reviewed how the cell-ECM interaction regulates cellular behavior and physicochemical properties. Herein, we have described the response of cells to mechanical stresses, the importance of substrate stiffness and geometry in tissue regeneration, and the development of scaffolds to mimic the nature of native ECM in 3D for tissue engineering applications has also been discussed. Finally, the study summarizes the conclusions and promising prospects based on the cell-ECM interplay.