Extracellular matrix remodelling and cellular differentiation

The extracellular matrix is not merely a passive structure. In the past few years, it has emerged that the matrix is a dynamic action zone that functi ons to instruct cellular phenotype. Extracellular matrix proteins interact directly with cell surface receptors to initiate signal transduction pathwa ys and to modulate those triggered by differentiation and growth factors. T he extracellular matrix also controls the activity and presentation of a wi de range of growth factors. Thus modulation of the extracellular matrix, by remodelling its structure and activity, has profound effects on its functi on and the consequent behaviour of cells residing on or within it.