Abstract:
Introduction. The old concept that the extracellular matrix is just a scaffold, which only has the supporting
function for cells, is clearly incorrect. Nowadays, the extracellular matrix is considered a physiologically
active component of all living tissues, which plays a crucial role in many cellular processes. The
pathological remodelling of extracellular matrix drives to diseases progression and it seems to be an
important research field and a potential therapeutic target.
Aim of study. Highlighting of structural components and main functions of the extracellular matrix.
Identification of the medical domains for which extracellular matrix properties research findings are
important.
Methods and materials. This review represents an analysis of actual information about the structural
components and functions of the extracellular matrix from online biomedical sources, found with the
research motors PubMed, Medscape, Google Scholar and including more than 50 references.
Results. The extracellular matrix is an extremely dynamic tissue component that is constantly being
remodelled to maintain tissue homeostasis. The quantitative variations of matrix components and their
organization lead to the appearance of different types of ECM, each of which is adapted to the physiological
needs of the tissue. The structural components of the matrix interact closely with tissue cells to regulate
various functions, including cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and even apoptosis. It is difficult
to estimate the role of the matrix in multicellular organisms, because there is no process without matrix
implication: it functions as an adhesive substrate for cells, provides structure, stores and presents growth
factors to their receptors, defines, perceives and transduces mechanical signals, activates intracellular
signalling. Actually, the fields with advanced studying of ECM are oncology, because it participates in all
stages of tumor progression, and regenerative medicine with transplantology, where a decellularized
extracellular matrix, used as a bioink offers new possibilities for tissue reconstruction.
Conclusion. The functional importance of the extracellular matrix has been demonstrated in multiple severe
diseases or embryonic deaths caused by the mutations of genes encoding matrix proteins. The studying and
detailed characterization of the matrix composition, metabolism and biology, in healthy and pathological
tissues, will lead to identification of new prognostic or diagnostic markers, will provide new therapeutic
targets and will open new stages in tissue transplantation.
