The role of extracellular matrix in cardiac development

Abstract

The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides important biophysical and biochemical cues during embryogenesis and tissue morphogenesis. Embryonic ECM is provisional and rapidly changes; even slight perturbations to the ECM can have catastrophic consequences that result in severe defects or even death of the developing embryo. As the ECM can influence essentially every cell behavior, it is critical to understand its role in healthy development and pathological progression. This chapter describes the general functions of the ECM and its primary constituents, and provides an overview of the current knowledge of the role of the ECM in the major milestones of cardiac development. Changes to the ECM in congenital heart defects, adult heart disease, and during cardiac regeneration are also discussed. ECM-based approaches offer much promise for cardiac regeneration and repair, many of which are discussed in further detail in later chapters.