Cell-matrix contact structures

Cell-extracellular matrix contacts are points on cell surfaces where adhesi on receptors tether cells to matrix and are linked intracellularly to cytos keletal components. These structures integrate cell organisation within tis sues, support cell motility and specialised activities of differentiated ce lls, and transduce extracellular signals. Current characterisations of matr ix contacts are based on morphological and biochemical criteria, yet the le vels of definition of different contact types are very varied. Some contact s are surprisingly little-studied given their likely importance in vivo. He re, I describe the general features of matrix contacts, review the function s and molecular composition of major types of transient and stable matrix c ontacts, and discuss the information that is emerging on contact integratio n and dynamics in single cells.