Cell-matrix interactions, force transmission, and mechanosensation

Living cells continually engage with their mechanically evolving environment, from tissues to organs and across development and disease. These cell-matrix interactions are processed by specific adhesions that initiate mechanotransduction—a process of converting mechanical inputs into biochemical signals. As a result, cells respond by generating varying levels of forces in mechanically distinct environments. This cellular mechanosensing and response forms the basis for cellular mechanobiology, which also determines the fundamental process of cell migration. In this chapter, we discussed the fundamental mechanisms of mechanics-dependence of cell migration and discuss the implications in embryonic development and diseased states of fibrosis and cancer. We also discuss emerging concepts of mechanical memory of cells and how mechanobiology may govern immune cell response. In addition, we review key tools and methods that are propelling this emerging field forward.