The article "Extracellular Matrix Assembly: A Multiscale Deconstruction" by Janna K. Mouw, Guanqing Ou, and Valerie M. Weaver provides an overview of the biochemical and biophysical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its role in regulating tissue-specific cell behavior. The ECM, composed of molecules such as collagens, proteoglycans, laminins, and fibronectin, plays a crucial role in tissue development, function, and homeostasis. The authors discuss the assembly of these macromolecules into a functional three-dimensional structure, highlighting the importance of their unique compositions and topographies. They also explore the dynamic remodelling of the ECM in response to environmental stimuli, such as force or injury, which helps maintain tissue homeostasis and respond to physiological challenges. The review focuses on key molecular players in the ECM, including fibrillar collagens, proteoglycans, and connectors like laminin and fibronectin. Fibrillar collagens, the most dominant components, are assembled through a series of post-translational modifications and interactions, resulting in a hierarchical structure that provides mechanical support. Proteoglycans, characterized by their GAG chains, form higher-order structures and contribute to hydration and compressive resistance. Connectors like laminin and fibronectin mediate interactions between the ECM and cells, facilitating cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. The article also discusses the organization of the ECM in different tissues, such as fibrillar collagen-rich tendons, the amorphous basal lamina, and proteoglycan-rich matrices in the brain. Each ECM has unique structural and functional properties that enable specific tissue functions. The authors emphasize the importance of understanding the temporal and spatial mechanisms of ECM production and assembly to address pathological conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease. Overall, the review underscores the complexity and diversity of the ECM, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate its underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications.The article "Extracellular Matrix Assembly: A Multiscale Deconstruction" by Janna K. Mouw, Guanqing Ou, and Valerie M. Weaver provides an overview of the biochemical and biophysical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its role in regulating tissue-specific cell behavior. The ECM, composed of molecules such as collagens, proteoglycans, laminins, and fibronectin, plays a crucial role in tissue development, function, and homeostasis. The authors discuss the assembly of these macromolecules into a functional three-dimensional structure, highlighting the importance of their unique compositions and topographies. They also explore the dynamic remodelling of the ECM in response to environmental stimuli, such as force or injury, which helps maintain tissue homeostasis and respond to physiological challenges. The review focuses on key molecular players in the ECM, including fibrillar collagens, proteoglycans, and connectors like laminin and fibronectin. Fibrillar collagens, the most dominant components, are assembled through a series of post-translational modifications and interactions, resulting in a hierarchical structure that provides mechanical support. Proteoglycans, characterized by their GAG chains, form higher-order structures and contribute to hydration and compressive resistance. Connectors like laminin and fibronectin mediate interactions between the ECM and cells, facilitating cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. The article also discusses the organization of the ECM in different tissues, such as fibrillar collagen-rich tendons, the amorphous basal lamina, and proteoglycan-rich matrices in the brain. Each ECM has unique structural and functional properties that enable specific tissue functions. The authors emphasize the importance of understanding the temporal and spatial mechanisms of ECM production and assembly to address pathological conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease. Overall, the review underscores the complexity and diversity of the ECM, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate its underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications.