Extracellular matrix and cell surface adhesion receptors (ECM/CSAR)

The extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell surface adhesion receptors constitute a complex structural and functional network that provides physical support and biochemical signaling cues to cells (Source: Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, "The extracellular matrix at a glance"). This scaffold includes fibrous proteins like collagen and glycoproteins like fibronectin, which serve as ligands for cell surface receptors such as integrins and cadherins (Source: Molecular Biology of the Cell, Alberts et al.). These interactions govern critical biological processes, including cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. In disease states, such as cancer, the ECM is often remodeled to promote tumor invasion and metastasis, while in fibrotic diseases, excessive ECM deposition leads to organ dysfunction (Source: Journal of Cell Science, "ECM remodeling in health and disease"). Therapeutic interventions often target specific components of this system; for example, monoclonal antibodies like Natalizumab target integrins to treat multiple sclerosis by preventing leukocyte adhesion (Source: FDA Label, Tysabri). Because this entry describes a broad structural context rather than a single protein, it is considered a functional category rather than a discrete molecular target.

Other names

Extracellular matrixCell adhesion moleculesECM proteinsAdhesion receptorsCell-matrix interactome

Modulation of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions through the inhibition of specific adhesion receptors or the modification of extracellular matrix components.