Stromal cells are supportive cells that form the structural and regulatory framework of tissues and organs, therefore defining the local microenvironment that enables different cell types to function as an integrated unit. They include fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, pericytes and endothelial cells, among others. Stromal cells produce and remodel the extracellular matrix, provide mechanical support, regulate vascular and immune interactions, and respond dynamically to biochemical, mechanical, and metabolic cues. As such, they are increasingly recognised as key regulators of tissue function and major drivers of disease processes, including cancer, inflammatory and metabolic disorders and autoimmunity.

At the Centre for the Cellular Microenvironment, we aim to understand how stromal cells contribute to tissue development, homeostasis, inflammation, regeneration, and disease progression. Researchers within this pillar work with a broad variety of stromal cells, with a particular focus on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and fibroblasts. We take a holistic approach to investigate how engineered microenvironments – including advanced biomaterials, mechanical forces, extracellular matrix organisation, and biochemical signals –  control MSC stemness, differentiation, and activation. Likewise, we translate fundamental research in fibroblast biology, immunity, and inflammatory checkpoints into complex in vitro tissue models of health and disease. This integrated research environment enables CeMi to connect mechanistic stromal cell biology with biomaterials and bioengineering approaches, supporting both discovery research and translational applications. We are now home for our flagship initiative, MAINSTREAM, a UK‑wide research hub led from Glasgow that addresses a major bottleneck in MSC therapies: finding scalable and reliable manufacturing strategies that maintain therapeutic potency while enabling large‑scale production for clinical use, including applications in bone repair, immune modulation, and blood cancer support. Together with support from major funding bodies and close collaboration with clinical and patient groups, this pillar strengthens CeMi’s ability to drive innovation in stromal biology, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.