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Updated: Oct 1, 2025
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Author Spotlight: Dissection and Isolation of Region-Specific Decellularized Lung Tissue
Published on: September 29, 2023
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Chronic lung diseases: entangled in extracellular matrix
Janette K Burgess1,2,3, Martin C Harmsen4,2,3
1University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Dept of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands j.k.burgess@umcg.nl.
Summary
Chronic lung diseases alter the lung extracellular matrix (ECM), affecting cell behavior and disease progression. Therapies should target ECM remodelling alongside cellular treatments for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides structural support and biochemical/biomechanical cues to lung cells.
- Changes in ECM composition and structure are observed in chronic lung diseases, but their impact on pathogenesis is not fully understood.
- Cellular responses like attachment, proliferation, and survival are regulated by signals from the ECM via surface receptors, notably integrins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how alterations in the physical and biomechanical properties of the lung ECM in chronic lung diseases influence cell phenotype and disease progression.
- To highlight the underappreciated role of ECM topographical arrangement, fiber organization, and stiffness in driving cellular responses within the lung microenvironment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of ECM composition and amount in diseased lung tissues.
- Evaluation of changes in ECM topographical arrangement, fiber organization, and viscoelasticity.
- Assessment of how these altered ECM characteristics impact cell behavior and phenotype.
Main Results:
- Extensive evidence confirms changes in ECM composition and quantity in diseased lungs.
- Alterations in ECM topography, fiber organization, and stiffness significantly impact cell phenotype.
- The physical and biomechanical changes in the lung ECM actively drive cellular responses, potentially perpetuating lung diseases.
Conclusions:
- The physical and biomechanical properties of the lung ECM play a critical role in regulating cell behavior and disease pathogenesis.
- Therapeutic strategies for chronic lung diseases should consider targeting ECM remodelling in addition to cellular targets.
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