In three-dimensional culture systems, cells are typically encapsulated in a complex, fibrous mesh-like structure.  In Chris’ paper in Lab on a Chip (“Defined topologically-complex protein matrices to manipulate cell shape via three-dimensional fiber-like patterns”), we develop a technique to simplify and replicate three-dimensional fiber-like adhesive micropatterns for ‘minimalistic 3D cell culture’.  This technology allows us to identify the impact of 3D matrix architectural features on cell function, which may then be used to inform biomaterial design for tissue engineering or regenerative medicine.