Fig. 1

MSC trophic mechanisms depend on MSC interactions with and modification of the local environment. MSC trophic functions can be both achieved and altered through dynamic ECM–cytoskeletal interactions, cell–cell contacts, and soluble and transcription factor signaling. ECM extracellular matrix, miRNA microRNA, MMP matrix metalloproteinase, MSC mesenchymal stem cell, TIMP tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase