The role of biophysical properties of provisional matrix proteins in wound repair

Wound healing is a complex, dynamic process required for maintaining homeostasis in an organism. Along with being controlled biochemically, wound healing is also controlled through the transduction of biophysical stimuli through cell interactions with the extracellular matrix (ECM). This review provides an overview of the ECM's role in the wound healing process and subsequently expands on the variety of roles biophysical phenomenon play. •Biophysical properties of ECM proteins play important roles in wound repair.•Fibrin mechanics modulate platelet attachment, spreading and contraction in clots.•Fibronectin can modulate cellular interactions via integrin switching.•Collagen mechanical properties control fibroblast migration and proliferation.•TGF-β can become activated via biophysical mechanisms.