Our laboratory studies how cells respond to various stimuli by changing shape and cell migration. The starting point is extracellular proteins such as fibronectin, vitronectin, and thrombospondins. These proteins are incorporated into the extracellular matrix and influence cellular behavior. The proteins are complex and multi-modular and have obscure structure/function relationships. All mediate cell adhesion and are recognized by cell surface integrins. All interact with a number of other molecules in the extracellular milieu. We use a variety of biochemical, biophysical, cell biological, molecular biological, immunochemical, histological, and ultrastructural techniques to analyze these these molecules and their functions.