Weakening of resistance force by cell–ECM interactions regulate cell migration directionality and pattern formation

Abstract

Hagiwara et al. investigate how spatio-temporally remodeled ECM alters the resistance force exerted on cells using microfabrication techniques, optical tweezers and mathematical models. The authors demonstrate that active remodeling of the microenvironment modulates force exerted on cells by the ECM, contributing to directionality and pattern formation.