Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Capillary Force Lithography for Cardiac Tissue Engineering
Published on: June 10, 2014
Interaction between cell and extracellular matrix in heart disease: multiple roles of tenascin-C in tissue remodeling
K Imanaka-Yoshida1, M Hiroe, T Yoshida
1Department of Pathology, Mie University School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan. imanaka@doc.medic.mie.u.ac.jp
Abstract:
The heart remodels myocardial tissue in physiological and pathological response. The cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interaction provides not only structural and mechanical support but also important biological signaling during tissue remodeling. Among various ECM molecules, tenascin-C (TNC) is well known as a regulator of multiple cellular functions during embryogenesis, wound healing or cancer progression. In the heart, TNC appears in several important steps of embryonic development such as the initial differentiation of cardiomyocytes or coronary vasculo/angiogenesis, but it is not detected in a normal adult myocardium. However, TNC is found to re-express after myocardial injury and may regulate cellular behavior during tissue remodeling by modulating the attachment of cardiomyocytes to connective tissue, by enhancing migration and differentiation of myofibroblasts, and by inducing matrix metallo-proteinases. TNC also interacts with other ECM molecules and may modulate progression of fibrosis. Furthermore, transient and site specific expression of TNC closely associated with myocardial injury and inflammation suggests not only its key roles during tissue remodeling but also that TNC can be a marker for myocardial disease activity.
Related Concept Videos
The Extracellular Matrix
The Tumor Microenvironment
The Extracellular Matrix
In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.
Composition of the Extracellular Matrix
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse...
Overview of Cell-Matrix Interactions
Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces
Anchoring junctions mechanically attach a cell to the...
Extracellular Matrix

