The extracellular matrix viscoelasticity as a regulator of cell and tissue dynamics

Abstract

The extracellular matrix mechanical properties regulate processes in development, cancer, and fibrosis. Among the distinct mechanical properties, the vast majority of research has focused on the extracellular matrix's elasticity as the primary determinant of cell and tissue behavior. However, both cells and the extracellular matrix are not only elastic but also viscous. Despite viscoelasticity being a universal feature of living tissues, our knowledge of the influence of the extracellular matrix's viscoelasticity in cell behavior is limited. This mini-review describes some of the recent findings that have highlighted the role of the extracellular matrix's viscoelasticity in cell and tissue dynamics.

Keywords: Cell adhesion; Cell mechanics; Cell migration; Extracellular matrix; Extracellular matrix mechanics; Fluidity; Mechanobiology; Mechanotransduction; Tissue mechanics; Viscoelasticity; Viscosity.