9632714 Cima This proposal is on research to test the hypothesis that matrix- associated ligands for growth factor receptors stimulate cell migration in a fashion that depends on both ligand concentration and proximity to ligands for adhesion receptors. This research involves collaborative research between investigators at two academic institutions, MIT and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. This collaboration enables the investigators to combine their expertise in cell and molecular biology and biomaterials, tissue engineering, and quantitative analysis in order to develop a unique model system in which both cellular parameters (receptor type, receptor signaling responses) and environmental parameters (number, type, and nanoscale control of spatial presentation of ligands for adhesion and growth factor receptors) can be independently and systematically modulated. The experimental system will be complimented by rigorous quantitative analysis of the receptor-mediated processes which occur. This will provide a basis for choosing the most appropriate range of system parameters to study experimentally and which allows the results of studies in the model system to be generalized to additional cell types important in tissue engineering. ***
