Fibronectin: an interesting vocal fold protein

Area of Science:

• Extracellular Matrix Biology
• Vocal Fold Physiology and Pathology
• Glycoprotein Function

Background:

• The extracellular matrix (ECM) is increasingly recognized for functions beyond structural support.
• Fibronectin, a ubiquitous glycoprotein, is abundant in regenerating, healing, and embryonic tissues.
• Fibronectin performs diverse functions relevant to vocal fold biology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the structure and isoforms of fibronectin.
• To review fibronectin's functions relevant to vocal fold biology and pathology.
• To discuss preliminary gene expression data in vocal folds.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on fibronectin structure, isoforms, and functions.
• Review of evidence on fibronectin in vocal fold pathology (nodules, polyps, scarring, Reinke's edema).
• Analysis of preliminary microarray data on fibronectin gene expression.

Main Results:

• Fibronectin is implicated in various vocal fold pathologies, including nodules, polyps, scarring, and Reinke's edema.
• Fibronectin's role in mucosal wave impairment is reviewed.
• Preliminary data indicate upregulated fibronectin gene expression in true vocal folds compared to false vocal folds.

Conclusions:

• Fibronectin is a significant component of the vocal fold ECM with implications in its normal function and disease states.
• Further research into fibronectin's specific roles in vocal fold health and disease is warranted.
• Differential gene expression suggests a specialized role for fibronectin in true vocal folds.