Extracellular matrix markers and methods for their study

Abstract

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex meshwork consisting mainly of proteins and carbohydrates; it is currently viewed as a key factor of tissue organization and homeostasis. In each organ, the composition of ECM is different: It includes a variety of fibrillar components, such as collagens, fibronectin, and elastin, as well as non-fibrillar molecules: Proteoglycans, hyaluronan, glycoproteins, and matrix proteins. ECM is an active tissue, where the de novo syntheses of structural components are constantly taking place. In parallel, ECM components undergo degradation catalyzed by a number of enzymes including matrix metalloproteinases. The synthesis and degradation of ECM components are controlled by mediators and cytokines, metabolic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Currently, a large amount of evidence indicates that modifications (remodeling) of ECM play an important role in the pathogenesis of clinical conditions. This may explain the increasing interest in the markers of ECM remodeling both in health and disease. In recent years, many of the ECM markers were considered targets for diagnosing, predicting, and treating diseases. In this review, we discuss some of the currently known ECM markers and methods used for their determination.