Extracellular Matrix Proteins and Transcription of Matrix-Associated Genes in Mesenchymal Stromal Cells during Modeling of the Effects of Microgravity.

Abstract

We studied the effects of simulated microgravity (10 days) on the production of extracellular matrix proteins and expression of extracellular matrix-associated genes in human mesenchymal stem cells. A decrease in collagen production, reduced expression of TIMP-1, TIMP-3, and MMP-11 genes, and enhanced expression of tenascin and laminin subunit were revealed. The results attest to activation of proteolytic processes in the matrix of mesenchymal stromal cells and weakening of cell adhesion to extracellular matrix under conditions of simulated microgravity.