Abstract
Matricellular proteins (MCPs) are defined as extracellular matrix (ECM) associated proteins that are important regulators and integrators of microenvironmental signals, contributing to the dynamic nature of ECM signalling. There is a growing understanding of the role of matricellular proteins in cellular processes governing tissue development as well as in disease pathogenesis. In this review, the expression and functions of different MP family members (periostin, CCNs, TSPs, SIBLINGs and others) are presented, specifically in relation to craniofacial development and the maintenance of orofacial tissues, including bone, gingiva, oral mucosa, palate and the dental pulp. As will be discussed, each MP family member has been shown to have non-redundant roles in development, tissue homeostasis, wound healing, pathology and tumorigenesis of orofacial and dental tissues.
Highlights
Sci. 2021, 22, 6626. https://doi.org/In recent years, a plethora of research has demonstrated that the extracellular matrix (ECM) composition is an important determinant of tissue development and organization, tissue homeostasis and remodelling, and progression of disease [1]
This review outlines what is presently known about the role of the matricellular proteins (MCPs) families Glacontaining proteins, CCN, thrombospondin, Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine/Osteonectin (SPARC), SIBLINGs, and tenascin in orofacial and dental tissue development, wound healing and neoplastic disease, and mechanisms involved in their regulation
CCN is derived from the initial letters of cysteine-rich protein 61 (CYR61), Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and nephroblastoma overexpressed (NOV/CCN3); these three molecules correspond to CCN1, CCN2, and CCN3, respectively, according to the recent nomenclature [118]
Summary
A plethora of research has demonstrated that the extracellular matrix (ECM) composition is an important determinant of tissue development and organization, tissue homeostasis and remodelling, and progression of disease [1]. MCPs are not involved in tissue homeostasis, it is understandable that analysis of these proteins through genetic deletion revealed mice developed normally and exhibited no major phenotypic changes in adulthood [9,10]. This review outlines what is presently known about the role of the MCP families Glacontaining proteins (periostin, βigh, matrix Gla protein), CCN, thrombospondin, SPARC, SIBLINGs, and tenascin in orofacial and dental tissue development, wound healing and neoplastic disease, and mechanisms involved in their regulation.
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