Extracellular matrix components and cell surface receptors in target tissues

The extracellular matrix (ECM) and its associated cell surface receptors constitute a dynamic microenvironment essential for tissue homeostasis and structural integrity [NIH]. The ECM is composed of a diverse array of macromolecules, including collagens, laminins, and fibronectins, which provide physical scaffolding and sequester growth factors [PubMed]. Cell surface receptors, such as integrins and discoidin domain receptors (DDRs), serve as sensors that mediate bidirectional communication between the cell and the extracellular environment [UniProt]. This interaction regulates fundamental biological processes, including cell proliferation, survival, and migration [PubMed]. In diseases like cancer, the ECM is often stiffened and remodeled, promoting tumor cell invasion and chemoresistance [Nature Reviews Cancer]. Similarly, in fibrotic conditions, an imbalance in ECM synthesis and degradation leads to organ dysfunction [StatPearls]. Therapeutic strategies often focus on specific components within this system, such as integrin antagonists or matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors, to disrupt pathological signaling or matrix accumulation [Nature Reviews Drug Discovery].

Other names

ECM and cell surface receptorsExtracellular matrix-receptor interaction componentsECM-receptor axis

Drugs targeting this system typically function by inhibiting cell-matrix adhesion, modulating signal transduction pathways, enzymatically degrading pathological matrix components, or blocking specific ligand-receptor interactions [Nature Reviews Drug Discovery].