ABSTRACT

The physical connection between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) is mediated via multimolecular complexes known as “integrin adhesions.”1,2 These structures

are located at cells’ ventral surfaces when plated on 2-dimensional (2D) matrices3 (see Figure 27.1) and in cell bodies and protrusions when embedded in 3-dimensional (3D) environments.4 Integrin adhesions not only serve as local anchors for the cells but also play active roles in chemical and mechanical sensing of the ECM and are thus important in maintaining cellular homeostasis.5