Extracellular matrix biomechanical roles and adaptation in health and disease

Abstract

Extracellular matrices (ECMs) are dynamic 3D macromolecular networks that exhibit structural characteristics and composition specific to different tissues, serving various biomechanical and regulatory functions. The interactions between ECM macromolecules, such as collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), proteoglycans (PGs), fibronectin and laminin, along with matrix effectors and water, contribute to the unique cellular and tissue functional properties during organ development, tissue homoeostasis, remodeling, disease development and progression. Cells adapt to environmental changes by adjusting the composition and array of ECM components. ECMs forming the 3D bioscaffolds of our body provide mechanical support for tissues and organs and respond to the environmental variables influencing growth and final adult body shape in mammals. Different cell types exhibit specific adaptations to their respective ECM environments. ECMs regulate biological processes by controlling diffusion of infections/inflammations, sensing and adapting to external stimuli and gravity from the surrounding habitat, and, in the context of cancer, interplaying with and regulating cancer cell invasion and drug resistance. Alterations in the ECM composition in pathological conditions drive adaptive responses of cells and could therefore result in abnormal cell behavior and tissue dysfunction. Understanding the biomechanical functionality, adaptation and roles of distinct ECMs is essential for research into various pathologies, including cancer progression and multidrug resistance, which is of crucial importance for developing targeted therapies. In this Viewpoint article, we critically present and discuss specific biomechanical functions of ECMs and regulatory adaptation mechanisms in both health and disease, with a particular focus on cancer progression.

Matrix‐based molecular mechanisms, targeting and diagnostics in oral squamous cell carcinoma

“…Therefore, metastatic spread is a multistep process that is characterized by the invasive phenotype that is dominated by tumor cells' capacity to adhere to the ECM, break down matrix elements, and then pass through these matrix defects. 66 According to reports, the frequency of laminin and collagen IV discontinuity from healthy epithelium to hyperplastic, dysplastic and OSCCs has gradually increased. 67 Laminin and collagen IV staining patterns in primary OSCCs were found to be like those in metastatic nodules by Harada et al, who also noted that the cellular population of the deep areas displayed the invasive and metastatic potential of oral carcinoma.…”

The Development of a 3D PET Fibrous Scaffold Modified with an Umbilical Cord dECM for Liver Tissue Engineering

“…The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex secreted by the cells of tissues and organs, distributed on the cell surface and within intercellular spaces. It comprises an intricate mix of structural and functional proteins, including type I collagen, type III collagen, fibronectin, laminin, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and various cell growth factors [21,22]. Collagen has been proven as a tissue engineering material that significantly promotes cell adhesion, proliferation, and functional expression [23][24][25][26].…”

Mimicked Spinal Cord Fibers Trigger Axonal Regeneration and Remyelination after Injury

“…The extracellular matrix (ECM) forms a dynamic threedimensional (3D) network that provides structural support for cells. 29,30 Accumulated evidence suggests ECM also plays an important role in orchestrating cell signaling and functions. 31,32 Spinal cord ECM consists of multiple collagens, proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and matrix-associated components, which contribute to the normal physiology of the spinal cord.…”

“…The extracellular matrix (ECM) forms a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) network that provides structural support for cells. , Accumulated evidence suggests ECM also plays an important role in orchestrating cell signaling and functions. , Spinal cord ECM consists of multiple collagens, proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and matrix-associated components, which contribute to the normal physiology of the spinal cord. , Following the progression and severity of SCI, the ECM components are altered. Excessive ECM breakdown or deposition leads to the destruction or abnormality of tissue structure and function, such as the formation of cavities or scars.…”