Dear Colleagues,

Mechanotransduction defines the process by which cells perceive and respond to microenvironmental physical forces (e.g., tension, compression, distortion, friction) and cues (e.g., rigidity, topography) by activating a cellular signaling sequence mediated by mechanosensitive cellular components and gene expression. Although the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been completely understood, increasing evidence suggests that mechanotransduction is critically involved in the control of cell differentiation, cell migration, tissue homeostasis, and organ development. Aberrations in mechanotransductive processes and structures have been implicated in pathophysiological situations and diseases, in particular, e.g., in cancer progression and metastasis, or neurodegenerative diseases.

This Special Issue welcomes original research and review papers addressing the contribution of biophysical forces and cues deriving from the extracellular microenvironment in shaping cell fate and functioning. Interdisciplinary applications will stimulate future research in this exciting and rapidly progressing field.

Prof. Carla Perego
Dr. Carsten Schulte
Guest Editors

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• mechanotransduction
• stem cells
• regenerative medicine
• extracellular matrix
• biomaterials
• tissue engineering