Extracellular matrix as a factor regulating the physiological microenvironment of the cell

Abstract

Extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic three-dimensional network of macromolecules that provides structural support to cells and tissues. Over the last decades, a significant body of evidence has accumulated showing that ECM also plays a key regulatory role. The structural components of the ECM (proteins, glycoproteins, proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans), the complex of remodeling molecules (proteases / antiproteases), and deposited/released bioactive mediators form an integrated functional system, which provides physiological homeostasis in the tissue. ECM can continuously adopt under the influence of mechanical, biochemical, physical signals, providing the ability to configure various tissues to meet the demands of their functions. The review briefly presents the current data on the structural components of the ECM. Special attention is paid to ECM as depo, as well as the source of biologically active products resulting from the physiological remodelling of the ECM. The role of the most important physical factor of the microenvironment, the tissue oxygen level, in the physiology of the ECM of stromal lineage cells is discussed.