Extracellular matrix and cell adhesion molecule (ECM and CAM)

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex and dynamic network of macromolecules—mainly proteins such as collagen, elastin, fibronectin, and glycoproteins, as well as proteoglycans and minerals—that provides structural and biochemical support to cells in tissues[2][1][8]. Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are a diverse group of transmembrane proteins on the cell surface, including integrins, cadherins, selectins, and immunoglobulin superfamily members, that mediate the binding of cells to each other and to the ECM[7][1][5]. Together, ECM components and CAMs play essential roles in tissue architecture, mechanotransduction, regulation of cell signaling, and maintenance of multicellular structure and function[8][3][6]. They are involved in numerous physiological processes including cell migration, development, immune responses, and wound repair[1][4][3]. Dysregulation contributes to a range of diseases such as cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmune disorders, making certain ECM and CAM components valid therapeutic targets. However, the term “extracellular matrix and cell adhesion molecules” is overly broad and not a specific molecular target, but rather refers to large protein families and networks[1][7]. Note: - This entry is considered *not* a conventional drug target (e.g., a single protein, enzyme, or receptor), but an umbrella term covering many proteins and complexes. To use this in a structured database, individual ECM molecules (e.g., "Fibronectin," "Integrin alpha-4/beta-1," "Collagen type I") or CAMs (e.g., "ICAM-1," "E-cadherin") should be considered instead.

Other names

Extracellular matrix (ECM)Cell adhesion molecule (CAM)ECMCAMs

Inhibition of cell adhesion Disruption of ECM–cell signaling Modulation of immune cell trafficking Inhibition of matrix degradation