Final answer:
Signals between the ECM and the cytoskeleton are transmitted by integrins, which are membrane proteins that connect the cell to the ECM and enable communication that affects the cell's internal activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The signals between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the cytoskeleton may be transmitted by integrins. Integrins are integral membrane proteins that facilitate the attachment of cells to the ECM. During embryogenesis, integrins bind to fibronectin in the ECM and signal cell and tissue differentiation. The cytoskeleton, consisting of elements like microfilaments and intermediate filaments, is connected to the ECM through these integrins, which can transmit signals inducing changes inside the cell that may affect gene expression and cellular functions.