Extracellular matrix of the skin (Skin ECM)

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the skin is a complex, dynamic network of proteins and polysaccharides that provides essential structural integrity and biochemical support to the epidermis and dermis (NIH, 2023). It is primarily composed of fibrous proteins such as collagen and elastin, which confer tensile strength and elasticity, alongside glycoproteins like fibronectin and laminin that facilitate cell adhesion and signaling (StatPearls, 2024). Beyond its structural role, the skin ECM acts as a reservoir for growth factors and regulates critical cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and migration, which are vital for wound healing and tissue homeostasis (PubMed, 2022). Dysregulation of these proteins is a hallmark of various dermatological conditions, ranging from photoaging and chronic wounds to genetic disorders like epidermolysis bullosa and fibrotic diseases like scleroderma (UniProt, 2024). Therapeutic strategies targeting the skin ECM often focus on stimulating the production of structural proteins, inhibiting their enzymatic degradation by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), or modulating the activity of matricellular proteins to enhance repair and rejuvenation (MDPI, 2023).

Other names

Skin extracellular matrixDermal extracellular matrixExtracellular skin proteinsCutaneous extracellular matrixIntercellular matrix of the skin

Modulation of the synthesis, assembly, cross-linking, or degradation of structural and regulatory proteins within the dermal and epidermal layers to restore tissue integrity or function (PubMed, 2022; MDPI, 2023).