Extracellular matrix hydration and volume

The **extracellular matrix (ECM) hydration and volume** refer to the water content and spatial extent of the ECM, properties primarily determined by proteoglycans such as hyaluronan and chondroitin sulfate, which attract sodium ions and water through their negative charge[3][2]. This hydration status enables the ECM to maintain tissue turgor, support cell viability, and regulate the diffusion of nutrients, growth factors, and cytokines. Changes in ECM hydration and compressibility can directly modulate cell proliferation, migration, and mechanotransduction: compressed or dehydrated ECM restricts cell movement and can inhibit proliferation, as shown in 3D cell culture and tumor models[1]. ECM hydration and volume are crucial in physiology (wound repair, organ homeostasis) and pathology (cancer, fibrosis, edema, inflammation), but are considered properties emerging from the composition and structure of the ECM rather than targets for direct pharmacological intervention[3][2][1]. **In summary:** "Extracellular matrix hydration and volume" is not a canonical druggable target but a property resulting from the combined action of many ECM molecules and structural features[4][3]. It is therefore not suitable as a direct molecular target entry.

Other names

ECM hydrationECM water contentECM volume regulation