Provisional matrix: A role for versican and hyaluronan

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Hyaluronan and versican are extracellular matrix (ECM) components crucial in early development and disease.
• They form pericellular coats and open spaces, influencing cell sorting, proliferation, migration, survival, and leukocyte recruitment.
• Previously considered inert, these ECM molecules actively control cell phenotype, tissue injury response, and homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical roles of hyaluronan and versican in modulating cellular processes and tissue environments.
• To underscore the significance of hyaluronan/versican-rich provisional matrices in development and disease pathogenesis.
• To present the targeting of these ECM components as a potential therapeutic avenue.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on hyaluronan and versican functions.
• Analysis of their roles in cell behavior, tissue development, and disease states.
• Examination of the transition from provisional to fibrotic matrices.

Main Results:

• Hyaluronan and versican actively regulate cell behavior, including migration and survival.
• These molecules are vital for leukocyte recruitment in early disease stages.
• The conversion of hyaluronan/versican-rich matrix to collagen-rich matrix is a hallmark of tissue fibrosis.

Conclusions:

• Hyaluronan and versican are dynamic regulators of cell phenotype and tissue homeostasis.
• Their accumulation in provisional matrices is implicated in various diseases.
• Targeting hyaluronan and versican in provisional matrices presents a viable therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular disease, cancer, and fibrosis.