Extracellular matrix components and cell-surface adhesion receptors

Extracellular matrix (ECM) components and cell-surface adhesion receptors represent a broad category of molecules essential for maintaining tissue architecture and mediating cellular responses during injury. The ECM consists of a diverse array of proteins such as collagen, fibronectin, and laminin, which provide the physical scaffold for cells at the wound site (Source: NIH, StatPearls). Cell-surface receptors, most notably the integrin family, serve as the primary link between the intracellular cytoskeleton and the extracellular environment, transducing signals that regulate cell survival, migration, and proliferation (Source: Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology). In the context of wound healing, these molecules undergo dynamic remodeling to transition through the stages of inflammation, tissue formation, and maturation. Dysregulation of these components is a hallmark of various pathologies, including chronic non-healing ulcers and hypertrophic scarring or fibrosis (Source: PubMed). While not a single therapeutic target, individual members of this group are targeted by drugs like integrin inhibitors to treat cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases (Source: PubChem).

Other names

ECM componentsCell adhesion moleculesWound healing matrixMatrisome

Modulation of cell-matrix interactions through competitive inhibition of integrin binding or enzymatic degradation of structural matrix proteins to facilitate remodeling.