Ets factors and regulation of the extracellular matrix

Ets factors are critical mediators of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodellin g. As the spectrum of Ets-regulated target genes widens, so does their role in various pathological and physiological processes. Regulation of matrix degrading proteases by Ets factors in tumor invasion and metastasis is well established, Emerging evidence suggests that they may also play a role in the pathology of autoimmune diseases. Newly characterized Ets target genes such as tenascin-C and collagen type I suggest their role in diseases chara cterized by aberrant collagen deposition (fibrosis), Ets function is also c ritical in bone and cartilage development. There is increasing knowledge of the complex regulatory mechanisms involved in transcription of Ets target genes. Ets factors may function as activators or as repressors via associat ion with specific cofactors depending on the promoter context. Signaling pa thways can modulate the activation status of Ets factors and their transcri ptional partners, Precise understanding of the role of Ets factors in the c omplex cellular network governing the expression of ECM proteins and the en zymes that degrade them will be a focus of future studies.