Mucinoses

Abstract

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the dermis consists of collagen and elastic fibers as well as an interfibrillar basic substance consisting of various glycoproteins, water, and salt. The main components of this basic substance are the proteoglycans (mucin), which are bound to glycosaminoglycans via their protein component with a long thread-like, central core (core protein). The proteoglycan molecules consist mainly of hyaluronic acid, dermatan sulfate, chondroitin-4-sulfate, and chondroitin-6-sulfate. Hydrostatic interactions of these components give the dermis its consistency. Disturbance of the glycosaminoglycan metabolism can lead to quantitative and/or qualitative changes in the ECM. The overproduction of glycosaminoglycans can, for example, be triggered by thyroid diseases or disorders of the immune system, but often no cause is found.