All the small things: Nanoscale matrix alterations in aging tissues.
Avery Rui Sun1, Ranmadusha M Hengst2, Jennifer L Young1
1Mechanobiology Institute (MBI), National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, 117411, Singapore; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, 117583, Singapore.
Current Opinion in Cell Biology
|January 26, 2024
Summary
Cellular aging involves changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) at the nanoscale, impacting cell function and tissue health. Understanding these nanoscale ECM alterations is key for developing new biomaterials and therapies for age-related diseases.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cellular Biology
- Tissue Engineering
- Aging Research
Background:
- Cellular aging is characterized by molecular changes leading to functional decline.
- Extracellular matrix (ECM) alterations, including biochemical, structural, and mechanical changes, contribute to cellular and tissue dysfunction.
- Recent advances highlight the significance of nanoscale ECM features in aging and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review micro- to nano-scale ECM properties altered during aging and in age-related diseases.
- To examine the impact of these altered nanoscale ECM properties on cellular function.
- To emphasize the role of nanoscale ECM features in future biomaterial design.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent advancements in high-resolution imaging modalities.
- Analysis of nanomaterial strategies relevant to ECM research.
- Synthesis of current understanding of ECM changes at micro- and nano-scales.
Main Results:
- Age-related changes in ECM occur across multiple scales, from micro- to nano-.
- Altered nanoscale ECM properties significantly influence cellular behavior and function.
- These nanoscale changes are implicated in age-related diseases.
Conclusions:
- Nanoscale ECM features are critical determinants of cellular and tissue function in aging.
- Future research should integrate nanoscale ECM properties into biomaterial design for regenerative medicine.
- Collaboration between tissue biology and nanomaterials communities is essential for advancing the field.
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