Connective tissue matrix proteins

Connective tissue matrix proteins are the major macromolecular components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in connective tissue, providing tissues with structural integrity, elasticity, and the ability to regulate cellular behavior. This group includes collagens (providing tensile strength), elastin (conferring elasticity), fibronectin (involved in cell adhesion and migration), laminins (structural scaffolds in basement membranes), proteoglycans (hydration and resistance to compression), and other specialized proteins such as tenascin and fibrillin. Interactions between these proteins and with cell-surface receptors (such as integrins) regulate numerous biological processes critical for morphogenesis, wound healing, fibrosis, and cancer metastasis. Abnormal remodeling or composition of ECM proteins is implicated in a broad range of diseases, including fibrotic, neoplastic, cardiovascular, and degenerative conditions. However, because "connective tissue matrix proteins" as a group does not specify a single molecular entity, this is not considered a druggable target per se, but rather a category comprising multiple individual targets with therapeutic relevance[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8].

Other names

Extracellular matrix proteinsECM proteinsMatrix proteins of connective tissueConnective tissue ECM proteins