Lenzini ACS nano image (IMAGE) University of Illinois Chicago Caption In the stiff substrates (dark green), cytoskeletal structures are dense and inflexible (red rods). This makes it difficult for extracellular vesicles (orange dots) to exit bodies (brown circles). In soft substrates (light green), these structures are shorter, bendable and more spread out, making the cell much more porous and conducive to the secretion of the particles, which can potentially be used to heal damaged lungs. Credit Lenzini, et al. Usage Restrictions none License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.