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Updated: Sep 6, 2025

Fabrication and Characterization of Layer-By-Layer Janus Base Nano-Matrix to Promote Cartilage Regeneration
Published on: July 6, 2022
Nidogen: A matrix protein with potential roles in musculoskeletal tissue regeneration
Sheng Zhou1, Song Chen2, Yixuan Amy Pei1
1Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedics, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA.
Abstract:
Basement membrane proteins are known to guide cell structures, differentiation, and tissue repair. Although there is a wealth of knowledge on the functions of laminins, perlecan, and type IV collagen in maintaining tissue homeostasis, not much is known about nidogen. As a key molecule in the basement membrane, nidogen contributes to the formation of a delicate microenvironment that proves necessary for stem cell lineage-specific differentiation. In this review, the expression of nidogen is delineated at both cellular and tissue levels from embryonic to adult stages of development; the effect of nidogens is also summarized in the context of musculoskeletal development and regeneration, including but not limited to adipogenesis, angiogenesis, chondrogenesis, myogenesis, and neurogenesis. Furthermore, potential mechanisms underlying the role of nidogens in stem cell-based tissue regeneration are also discussed. This concise review is expected to facilitate our existing understanding and utilization of nidogen in tissue engineering and regeneration.
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