Physical factors in the local cellular microenvironment, including cell shape and geometry,
matrix mechanics, external mechanical forces, and nanotopographical features of the
extracellular matrix, can all have strong influences on regulating stem cell fate. Stem cells
sense and respond to these insoluble biophysical signals through integrin-mediated
adhesions and the force balance between intracellular cytoskeletal contractility and the
resistant forces originated from the extracellular matrix. Importantly, these …