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Extracellular matrix-based cancer targeting

Nikos K Karamanos1, Zoi Piperigkou1, Alberto Passi2

  • 1Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Patras, Greece; Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH)/Institute of Chemical Engineering Sciences (ICE-HT), Patras, Greece.

Trends in Molecular Medicine
|August 14, 2021
PubMed

Insights

The tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) works with cancer cells to drive metastasis. Targeting ECM networks offers new therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment and diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • The tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial in cancer progression and metastasis.
  • Remodeled tumor-associated matrix presents therapeutic targeting opportunities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically review the role of ECM networks and macromolecules in cancer.
  • To enhance understanding of ECM's contribution to tumor initiation, growth, and dissemination.
  • To discuss novel ECM-based therapeutic and diagnostic approaches.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and critical analysis of existing research on ECM in cancer.
  • Focus on structural and functional ECM components, degradation enzymes, and extracellular vesicles.

Main Results:

  • ECM networks and their components are integral to cancer development and spread.
  • Degradation enzymes and extracellular vesicles significantly influence tumor progression.
  • ECM's role in tumor microenvironment dynamics is multifaceted.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting the tumor ECM is a promising strategy for cancer therapy.
  • Further research into ECM components can lead to improved diagnostic tools.
  • Understanding ECM mechanisms is key to developing effective anti-cancer treatments.
Keywords:
cancercollagenextracellular matrixhyaluronanmatrix remodeling enzymesproteoglycans

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