Guest Editors
Prof. Albert A. Rizvanov, OpenLab Gene and Cell Technology, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Russia.
Prof. Emanuele Rizzuto, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
Dr. Barbara Peruzzi, Bone Physiopathology Research Unit, IRCCS Children Hospital Bambino Gesù, Italy.
Summary
The extracellular matrix (ECM) serves as a critical scaffold that shapes the molecular and cellular landscape of tissues, influencing both developmental processes and disease pathology. This special issue, titled "Extracellular Matrix in Development and Disease", aims to delve into the intricate molecular and cellular aspects of the ECM's role in shaping biological systems. From maintaining tissue integrity to serving as a reservoir of signaling molecules to the applications in regenerative medicine, the ECM plays a pivotal role in orchestrating cellular behavior and tissue function. Notably, biofilms formed as ECM in bacterial cultures have profound implications for disease progression and drug resistance.
Topics may include but are not limited to:
1. Matrix Structure and Function: Investigating the structural organization and functional properties of the ECM across diverse tissues and organs.
2. Cell–Matrix Interactions: Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing cell attachment and the role of cell surface proteins in mediating cell–matrix interactions.
3. ECM Synthesis, Regulation, and Remodeling: Exploring the dynamic processes involved in ECM synthesis, regulation, composition, assembly, remodeling, and their impact on tissue homeostasis and disease progression.
4. Matrix in Normal Development: Examining the indispensable role of the ECM in guiding normal developmental processes, including tissue morphogenesis, organogenesis, and cellular differentiation.
5. Matrix in Pathophysiology: Unraveling the contributions of ECM dysregulation to various diseases, such as cancer, fibrosis, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.
6. ECM-Based Diagnostics and Therapeutics: Assessing the potential of ECM-related biomarkers for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at tissue repair and regeneration.
7. Artificial Scaffolds: Focus on the fabrication, characterization, and practical application of scaffolds for cell therapy, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.
By advancing our understanding of the ECM's multifaceted roles in development and disease, this special issue endeavors to catalyze the development of innovative approaches for diagnostics, prevention, and therapeutic interventions. It seeks to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange to address the complex challenges posed by ECM-related pathologies. This special issue provides a platform for researchers and clinicians to share insights and advancements in ECM biology, paving the way for improved diagnostics, preventions, and therapeutic strategies in various disease contexts.
Keywords
extracellular matrix, development, disease, cell–matrix interactions, tissue repair, regeneration, diagnostics, therapeutics, scaffolds
Published Papers
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