Serum proteins and extracellular matrix components

Serum proteins and extracellular matrix (ECM) components represent a broad and heterogeneous collection of molecules rather than a single discrete therapeutic target. Serum proteins, such as albumin and various globulins, are vital for maintaining blood oncotic pressure and serving as the primary transport system for hormones, lipids, and exogenous drugs [1]. The ECM is a complex, non-cellular network consisting of fibrous proteins like collagen and elastin, as well as proteoglycans and glycoproteins, which provide the essential physical scaffolding for tissues and influence cell signaling and migration [2]. While specific elements within these groups, such as Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) or particular collagen isoforms, are targeted in diseases like cancer and fibrosis, the collective term refers to the physiological environment that dictates drug distribution and bioavailability [3]. Many therapeutic agents interact non-specifically with these components, which can significantly impact their volume of distribution and the free fraction available for pharmacological action [4]. Consequently, this category is typically analyzed in the context of pharmacokinetics and tissue engineering rather than as a specific molecular receptor or enzyme. (Sources: [1] StatPearls, Physiology, Albumin; [2] Journal of Cell Science, The extracellular matrix at a glance; [3] Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, Extracellular matrix structure; [4] Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Plasma protein binding: from discovery to development).

Other names

Plasma proteinsExtracellular matrix componentsBlood proteinsInterstitial matrixECM proteins

Drugs interact with these components through non-specific reversible binding to transport proteins or via enzymatic degradation of structural matrix elements to facilitate tissue penetration.