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A Rapid, Scalable Method for the Isolation, Functional Study, and Analysis of Cell-derived Extracellular Matrix
Published on: January 4, 2017
Structure and function of the skeletal muscle extracellular matrix
Allison R Gillies1, Richard L Lieber
1Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0863, USA.
Muscle & Nerve
|September 28, 2011
Summary
The skeletal muscle extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial for muscle function and repair. Its structure and composition change significantly in disease, impacting muscle health and function.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- The skeletal muscle extracellular matrix (ECM) is vital for muscle fiber force transmission, maintenance, and repair.
- ECM undergoes significant adaptations in injured and diseased states, affecting muscle function and clinical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure, composition, and mechanical properties of skeletal muscle ECM.
- To describe cells involved in ECM maintenance.
- To overview ECM changes in pathological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of skeletal muscle ECM.
- Analysis of cellular contributions to ECM.
- Examination of ECM adaptations in disease.
- Presentation of new scanning electron micrographs of ECM structure.
Main Results:
- The ECM's structure, composition, and mechanical properties are critical for muscle function.
- Cellular players in ECM maintenance were identified.
- Pathological conditions induce dramatic ECM alterations.
- New micrographs offer insights into ECM structure-function relationships.
Conclusions:
- Detailed ECM structure-function relationships remain to be elucidated.
- Further research is needed to fully define ECM roles in muscle health and disease.
- Understanding ECM adaptations is key for therapeutic strategies.
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