The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic and complex microenvironment that modulates cell behavior and cell fate. Changes in ECM composition and architecture have been correlated with development, differentiation, and disease progression in various pathologies, including breast cancer [1]. Studies have shown that aligned fibers drive a pro-metastatic microenvironment, promoting the transformation of mammary epithelial cells into invasive ductal carcinoma via the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) [2].
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe potential of human induced pluripotent stem cell differentiated cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) is greatly limited by their functional immaturity. Strong relationships exist between cardiomyocyte (CM) structure and function, leading many in the field to seek ways to mature hiPSC-CMs by culturing on biomimetic substrates, specifically those that promote alignment. However, these models have so far failed to replicate the alignment that occurs during cardiac differentiation.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOlder people have been disproportionately vulnerable to the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with an increased risk of severe complications and death compared to other age groups. A mix of underlying factors has been speculated to give rise to this differential infection outcome including changes in lung physiology, weakened immunity, and severe immune response. Our study focuses on the impact of biomechanical changes in lungs that occur as individuals age, that is, the stiffening of the lung parenchyma and increased matrix fiber density.
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