Extracellular matrix-interacting wound cells

Extracellular matrix-interacting wound cells is a descriptive term rather than a specific molecular target or receptor. It refers to a heterogeneous population of cells, including fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and macrophages, that play a central role in the wound healing process by interacting with the extracellular matrix (ECM) (Tracy et al., 2016). These cells utilize various surface receptors, such as integrins and CD44, to sense the mechanical and chemical properties of the ECM, which in turn regulates their migration, proliferation, and differentiation (Hinz, 2016). In chronic wounds or fibrotic diseases, the interaction between these cells and the ECM is often pathological, leading to impaired healing or excessive scar formation (Gurtner et al., 2008). While not a single drug target, these cells are the focus of therapeutic strategies that use growth factors like Becaplermin to stimulate repair or small molecules like Pirfenidone to inhibit fibrotic activity. The dynamic interplay between these cells and the ECM scaffold is essential for successful tissue regeneration and the restoration of skin integrity.

Other names

ECM-interacting cellsWound-healing fibroblastsMyofibroblastsActivated fibroblastsWound-associated cells

Modulation of cellular proliferation, migration, and differentiation via growth factor receptor activation (e.g., PDGFR) or inhibition of pro-fibrotic signaling pathways (e.g., TGF-beta/Smad) to regulate ECM deposition.