Intestinal epithelial cell and extracellular matrix component interaction

The interaction between **intestinal epithelial cells** and **extracellular matrix (ECM) components** refers to the critical cellular and molecular relationships that establish and maintain the architecture and function of the intestinal wall. Intestinal epithelial cells form a single-cell-thick monolayer covering the gut lumen, providing a selective barrier that mediates nutrient absorption, secretion, and protection against pathogens[2][5]. The ECM, composed of collagens, glycoproteins (such as fibronectin and laminins), proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans, serves as a structural scaffold and conveys biomechanical and biochemical signals that regulate epithelial cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, polarity, and repair[1][4][5]. Cellular adhesion to the ECM occurs principally via integrin receptors and is essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and stem cell niche function[3][4]. Disruption of this interplay contributes to diseases such as cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, infection, and impaired wound healing[1][2][5]. However, "intestinal epithelial cells / extracellular matrix components" is not a discrete canonical molecular target but describes a functional cellular-matrix interface, rather than a single molecular entity suitable for direct therapeutic targeting.

Other names

Intestinal epithelial cellsIntestinal extracellular matrixIntestinal ECMIntestinal barrier components