You Talking to Me? Cadherin and Integrin Crosstalk in Biomaterial Design

Abstract

While much work has been done in the design of biomaterials to control integrin-mediated adhesion, less emphasis has been put on functionalization of materials with cadherin ligands. Yet, cell–cell contacts in combination with cell–matrix interactions are key in driving embryonic development, collective cell migration, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and cancer metastatic processes, among others. This review focuses on the incorporation of both cadherin and integrin ligands in biomaterial design, to promote what is called the “adhesive crosstalk.” First, the structure and function of cadherins and their role in eliciting mechanotransductive processes, by themselves or in combination with integrin mechanosensing, are introduced. Then, biomaterials that mimic cell–cell interactions, and recent applications to get insights in fundamental biology and tissue engineering, are critically discussed.