Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Generating a Fractal Microstructure of Laminin-111 to Signal to Cells
Published on: September 28, 2020
So Much More Than Just Structural Support: Laminin-332 and Its Multifaceted Functions in Skin Homeostasis and Disease
1Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
Abstract:
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is increasingly recognised as a dynamic regulator of tissue function beyond its traditional structural role. In the skin, the ECM supports tissue integrity while also controlling processes such as stem cell maintenance, wound healing and disease progression. This review focuses on laminin-332, a key component of the epidermal-dermal junction. Its essential role in maintaining epidermal cohesion is illustrated by junctional epidermolysis bullosa, a severe inherited blistering disorder and recent advances in laminin-332-targeted genetic therapies are discussed. Beyond structural support, laminin-332 also mediates signalling through integrins and syndecans, thereby influencing epidermal homeostasis, migration, repair and the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Its role in epidermal stem cell maintenance further links laminin-332 to skin ageing. The review also examines its functions in hair follicle biology, melanocyte behaviour, skin immunity and emerging evidence implicating laminin-332 in epidermal metabolism-an exciting area for future investigation. Finally, the structure and functions of other cutaneous laminins are compared with laminin-332 to help explain its specialised roles.
More Related Videos
08:32Building Up Skin Models for Numerous Applications - from Two-Dimensional (2D) Monoculture to Three-Dimensional (3D) Multiculture
Published on: October 20, 2023
06:27A 3D Spheroid Model as a More Physiological System for Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Differentiation and Invasion In Vitro Studies
Published on: August 8, 2019
Related Concept Videos
Laminins are the Adhesive Proteins of Basal Lamina
In humans, the five forms of alpha chains are LAMA 1, LAMA 2, LAMA 3, LAMA 4, and LAMA 5. The four forms of beta chains are LAMB 1, LAMB 2, LAMB 3, and LAMB 4. The three forms of gamma...
Basal Lamina are the Specialized Form of ECM
Proteins...
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to form...
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to form...
Anchoring Junctions
The Extracellular Matrix