Cell Matrix Adhesions and Fibroblast Essay -- Biology

Missing results figures How are cell matrix contacts regulated? The two papers explained in this website: "Regulation of protrusive and contractile cell-matrix contacts" and "Dynamics and segregation of cell-matrix in cultured fibroblasts" explore both the types of cell matrix contacts and the interactions between these contacts in many different bodily cells. Cell matrix contacts are parts of the cell surface where specialized adhesion receptors in the membrane attach to the extracellular matrix (ECM), the matrix outside the cells. These receptors are also linked to the inside of the cell, to the cytoskeleton (the skeleton of the cell) and to the signaling pathways of the cell (the biochemical steps that cause cells to act in a particular way). An extracellular matrix is a structure that is made of proteins, glycoproteins and other materials that cells are surrounded by or in contact with. Cells inside or near the matrix create the matrix by secreting these substances. Cells interaction with the ECM is very important for several reasons. Contact with an extracellular matrix is fundamental to the organization of both the cell and the tissue of which the cell is a part. Cell matrix interactions maintain and regulate cell adhesion and motility. Cell matrix contacts also act as sites for transmission of mechanical force and electrical signals between cells. Cell matrix interactions serve as the cells indicator for its surroundings, and its messenger for where this particular cell needs to be according to the vicinity of others. Cell adhesion is very important in embryonic development, regulating how tissues are built, the function of tissues and signaling across cells. The protein complexes involved in adhesion are very dive... ...l switch is matrix deformability or pliability. This kind of a switch would allow a cell to respond to environmental cues such as a rigid substrate by switching to an adhesion mode that provides firm anchorage. 4. Large focal contacts are generally stationary but small focal contacts can translocate. One end makes a polar extension then the other end contracts making for an inchworm like motion. This movement also seems to be dependent on contractile actomyosin. Specific cell types may use only one adhesion mechanism. Some cells can switch on fibrillar adhesion formation when fibronectin is present. In summary the authors found that the cell-matrix adhesions were very dynamic and diverse in their range of form, molecular components and locations. This dynamic and diverse system allows cells to have great variety and flexibility in their matrix contacts.