Mimicking the Extracellular Matrix: The Intersection of Matrix Biology and Biomaterials

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the focus of much interest in biology and bioengineering. Increasing understanding of the influence of the ECM on cell behaviour has led to the exciting possibilities of tissue engineering. Aside from new therapeutic tools, understanding the ECM is of course fundamental to basic cell biology research.

Mimicking the Extracellular Matrix approaches this topic from both basic science and practical engineering perspectives. Seven topics are approached each in a...