Cell Adhesion and the ECM

This lecture covers the importance of cell adhesion and the extracellular matrix (ECM) in providing strength to tissues, discussing materials for drug delivery, immune engineering, and tissue engineering. It explains the interactions between cells and ECM components, the functions of ECM, the process of ECM production, the implications of excessive ECM (fibrosis), and the role of ECM in liver fibrosis. The lecture also delves into the molecular composition of ECM, the functions of fibronectin and collagen receptors, the binding to integrins, focal adhesions, and tissue organization. It emphasizes the dynamic nature of ECM, its role in tissue structure maintenance, differentiation, growth, and response to injury.