Encounters in Space

Cultured cells are known to form focal and fibrillar adhesions with the substrate on which they grow. But to what extent these adhesions represent those formed in vivo is a matter of debate. In a Perspective, [Geiger][1] discusses new findings ([ Cukierman et al .][2]) claiming that the formation of physiological adhesions depends on the correct combination of molecular composition, topography, and pliability of the matrix. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/294/5547/1661 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/294/5547/1708