Tissue-specific parameters for the design of ECM-mimetic biomaterials.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex network of biomolecules that mechanically and biochemically directs cell behavior and is crucial for maintaining tissue function and health. The heterogeneous organization and composition of the ECM varies within and between tissue types, directing mechanics, aiding in cell-cell communication, and facilitating tissue assembly and reassembly during development, injury and disease. As technologies like 3D printing rapidly advance, researchers are better able to recapitulate in vivo tissue properties in vitro; however, tissue-specific variations in ECM composition and organization are not given enough consideration.