Extracellular Matrix

The Extracellular Matrix (ECM) is a complex network of proteins, sugars, and other molecules that not only surround and support cells in our body but also play critical roles in communication between cells. The ECM functions as a scaffold, providing mechanical support, but it also influences a wide range of cellular behaviors such as growth, differentiation, and repair.

Biological Role of ECM

The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays diverse roles and is a crucial component of the cellular microenvironment. It is a highly dynamic structure that undergoes constant remodeling, involving the deposition, degradation, and modification of ECM components. ECM remodeling is vital for tissue architecture reorganization. It serves as a regulatory mechanism for cell differentiation. It influences essential processes such as stem cell niche formation, branching morphogenesis, angiogenesis, bone remodeling, and wound healing. On the other hand, abnormal ECM dynamics disrupt cell proliferation and invasion, impair cell death, and hinder cell differentiation, leading to congenital defects and diseases such as tissue fibrosis and cancer. To develop new therapeutic approaches for diseases and innovative strategies for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, it is crucial to understand the mechanisms and regulation of ECM remodeling.

Structure of ECM

The ECM plays a multifaceted role in cellular functions, such as anchoring cells (stage 1), guiding migration (stages 2–3), and shaping signal gradients (stage 4). Additionally, specific ECM molecules, such as proteoglycans, act as co-receptors to modulate signaling (stages 5–6), while proteases can release functional fragments that impact cell behavior (stage 7). Finally, cells can detect and respond to the biomechanical properties of the ECM (stage 8).

Importance of ECM in Research

The ECM plays a crucial role in understanding the functioning of cells and tissues. It provides the necessary environment for cellular communication, regulates cell behavior, and influences the response to disease and injury. By studying the ECM, researchers can gain insights into tissue architecture, cellular interactions, and disease mechanisms. Understanding the ECM is essential for advancing fields such as regenerative medicine, cancer research, and tissue engineering.

Research on ECM is supported by various tools, including high-quality antibodies targeting key components of the ECM environment. These tools are essential for advancing regenerative medicine, cancer research, and tissue engineering.

Collagen Antibodies

Collagen is the most abundant fibrous protein within the interstitial ECM and constitutes up to 30% of the total protein mass of a multicellular animal.

Collagen Type I Antibodies

Collagen Type II Antibodies

Collagen Type III Antibodies

Collagen Type IV Antibodies

Collagen Type V Antibodies

Collagen Type VI Antibodies

Core Matrisome Antibodies

With the completion of genome sequencing for various organisms, we now have a fairly comprehensive understanding of the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein composition. In mammals, this collection of proteins, known as the "core matrisome," consists of approximately 300 proteins. Additionally, there are numerous enzymes that modify the ECM, growth factors that bind to the ECM, and other proteins associated with the ECM. These different types of ECM and ECM-associated proteins work together to assemble and modify extracellular matrices, as well as bind to cells through ECM receptors. Alongside receptors for growth factors bound to the ECM, these proteins provide multiple signals to cells, influencing their survival, proliferation, differentiation, shape, polarity, and movement. The evolution of ECM proteins played a vital role in the development of multicellularity, the organization of cells into tissue layers, and the emergence of new structures during vertebrate evolution. The importance of the ECM is evident in the diversity of ECM proteins, as well as their modular domain structures, which enable multiple interactions and the evolution of novel protein architectures.

ECM Remodeler Antibodies

ECM remodeling is driven by key enzymes that regulate the synthesis and degradation of its components, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). These molecules play a pivotal role in maintaining tissue homeostasis by controlling the breakdown and rebuilding of ECM structures. Disruption in the activity of these enzymes can lead to pathological conditions, such as cancer progression, fibrosis, and chronic inflammatory diseases.

Rene von der Forst, MSE

Marketing and E-Commerce Manager

Master of Science in engineering. 12+ years of experience in marketing and e-commerce in the life science sector.

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