The extracellular matrix: structure, composition, biological functions, diseases, and therapeutic targets - PubMed
5 hours ago
- #extracellular matrix
- #epigenetic regulation
- #cancer
- The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic regulator of tissue structure and signaling, with dysregulation linked to fibrosis and cancer.
- Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, control ECM-related gene expression and remodeling.
- A bidirectional feedback exists between ECM mechanics and epigenetic activity, where matrix stiffening and aberrant epigenetic programming drive disease progression.
- Key signaling pathways like TGF-β, Wnt, and PI3K/Akt are involved in ECM-epigenetic crosstalk.
- Therapeutic approaches targeting the ECM-epigenetic axis, such as epigenetic modulators and ECM-directed interventions, show promise for restoring matrix homeostasis.
- Evidence from in vitro studies, animal models, and human diseases supports the functional impact of ECM-epigenetic interactions.