Actuating Extracellular Matrices Decouple the Mechanical and Biochemical Effects of Muscle Contraction on Motor Neurons (Adv. Healthcare Mater. 6/2025)

Abstract

Neuromuscular Tissue Engineering

Exercise has systemic impacts on our bodies. In article 2403712, Ritu Raman and co-workers demonstrate that exercise accelerates the growth of motor neurons through both mechanical and biochemical signaling. This cover image shows a sphere of motor neurons growing outward, encouraged by both mechanical forces (left) and biochemical factors (right). Art by Ella Marushchenko.