ECMösszetevk

ECMösszetevk refer to the components of the extracellular matrix, a complex network of macromolecules that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells in tissues. The ECM is produced by resident cells such as fibroblasts, chondrocytes, and epithelial cells, and its composition varies with tissue type and developmental stage. It influences cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation and plays a central role in tissue mechanics.

Major components include fibrous proteins (collagens, elastin), proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and adhesive glycoproteins (fibronectin, laminin). Collagens provide tensile strength; types I, II, and III are fibrillar, while type IV forms networks in basement membranes. Elastin enables elasticity. Proteoglycans such as aggrecan, decorin, and versican bind water and sequester growth factors; GAGs like hyaluronic acid contribute to hydration and resilience. Laminin and fibronectin mediate cell attachment and signaling, connecting cells to the matrix. Basement membranes—the thin ECM layer beneath epithelial or endothelial cells—are rich in laminin, type IV collagen, nidogen, and heparan sulfate proteoglycans.

ECM functions include mechanical support, determination of tissue stiffness, and regulation of cell behavior through biochemical cues. Cells interact with the ECM via cell surface receptors (integrins, dystroglycan, discoidin domain receptors), triggering signaling pathways that influence proliferation, differentiation, and survival. The ECM also acts as a reservoir for growth factors and cytokines, modulating their availability.

Turnover and remodeling are dynamic, mediated by enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases. Imbalance can contribute to diseases such as fibrosis, aging-related tissue degeneration, and cancer progression. In research and medicine, ECM-inspired materials and decellularized ECM scaffolds are used in tissue engineering to guide cell behavior and regenerate tissues.