Extracellular matrix and cell-surface receptors (ECM-CSR)

The extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell-surface receptors represent a broad category of molecules that define the physical and biochemical environment of cells within tissues. The ECM is a non-cellular scaffold composed of proteins like collagen, laminin, and fibronectin, which provide structural integrity and mechanical cues to surrounding cells [Frantz et al., 2010, J Cell Sci]. Cell-surface receptors, most notably the integrin family, serve as the primary interface between the cell and the ECM, facilitating bidirectional signaling that regulates survival, proliferation, and motility [Hynes, 2002, Cell]. In pathological states, such as cancer, the ECM is often remodeled to promote tumor invasion and metastasis, while in fibrotic diseases, excessive accumulation of matrix components leads to organ dysfunction [Lu et al., 2012, Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol]. Therapeutic intervention in this space typically involves targeting specific receptor-ligand interactions, such as using integrin antagonists to prevent thrombosis or leukocyte infiltration in inflammatory diseases [Ley et al., 2007, Nat Rev Immunol]. Because this term encompasses a vast array of distinct proteins rather than a single molecular entity, it is generally classified as a biological system or category rather than a specific therapeutic target [Theocharis et al., 2016, Adv Drug Deliv Rev].

Other names

Extracellular matrixCell-surface receptorsCell adhesion moleculesECM proteinsECM-receptor interaction

Drugs targeting components of this system typically function by competitively inhibiting the binding of cell-surface receptors, such as integrins, to their specific extracellular matrix ligands, or by enzymatically degrading matrix components to facilitate tissue remodeling [Hynes, 2002; Ley et al., 2007].