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The extracellular matrix in tissue morphogenesis: No longer a backseat driver
María-Del-Carmen Díaz-de-la-Loza1, Brian M Stramer1
1Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, London, UK.
Cells & Development
|November 7, 2023
Summary
Tissue morphogenesis, the process of shaping tissues, is traditionally viewed as cell-driven. However, this review highlights the extracellular matrix (ECM) as an active, dynamic force in tissue development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Morphogenesis is primarily attributed to cellular activities.
- The extracellular matrix (ECM) is typically considered instructive, modulating cell behavior.
- Emerging evidence challenges the passive role of the ECM in tissue development.
Conclusions:
- The ECM plays a more active and directive role in morphogenesis than previously assumed.
- Morphogenesis should be redefined to include the dynamic and autonomous contributions of the ECM.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the active roles of the ECM in tissue development.
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