General cellular and extracellular matrix components

General cellular and extracellular matrix (ECM) components encompass the complex network of proteins, such as collagens and elastins, and polysaccharides that provide structural and biochemical support to cells (Frantz et al., 2010, J Cell Sci). This category is not a single therapeutic target but a broad biological compartment essential for tissue integrity, cell signaling, and homeostasis (Lu et al., 2012, J Cell Biol). In diseases like cancer, the ECM is often remodeled to promote tumor invasion and chemoresistance, while in fibrotic diseases, it becomes excessively stiff and accumulated (Winkler et al., 2020, Nat Commun). Pharmacological interventions typically target specific ECM constituents or their receptors, such as integrins or matrix metalloproteinases, rather than the matrix as a whole (Naba et al., 2016, BMC Cancer). Consequently, this term is considered a descriptive category or a biological environment rather than a specific, druggable molecular entity.

Other names

Extracellular matrixECMIntercellular matrixMatrisomeConnective tissue matrix

Enzymatic degradation of matrix components, inhibition of cell-adhesion receptors (integrins), or modulation of matrix cross-linking and synthesis.