The extracellular matrices. Part (summary of structure and function Possibly play role of memory storage device which is used to record events(e.g, a recent cell migration), thereby informing cells of what has already been done and acting as"arrow in a kinetic process Often bind cytokines and growth factors and act as reservoirs of such molecules Loss of cell-matrix contact characterizes tumor cells just prior to spreading of cancer from one organ to another(metastasis) Determines the shape of animals and maintains positional homeostasis of organs. Recently, certain synthetic ECM models have induced organ regeneration in adultsThe Extracellular Matrices. Part II. (summary of structure and function) 6 ƒ Possibly play role of memory storage device which is used to record events (e.g., a recent cell migration), thereby informing cells of what has already been done and acting as “arrow” in a kinetic process. ƒ Often bind cytokines and growth factors and act as reservoirs of such molecules. ƒ Loss of cell-matrix contact characterizes tumor cells just prior to spreading of cancer from one organ to another (metastasis). ƒ Determines the shape of animals and maintains positional homeostasis of organs. ƒ Recently, certain synthetic ECM models have induced organ regeneration in adults