Matrix biology and pathology, a new branch of biomedical sciences

The macromolecules of the intercellular matrix (MM) : collagen, elastin, proteoglycans and structural glycoproteins) are present in all tissues in variable amount and proportion. Some tissues, particularly rich in MM are designated as "connective tissues". Matrix macromolecules assure the integration of cells in tissues and of tissues in organs and in the whole organism. Differentiation, morphogenesis, maturation and aging are characterized by the variation of the raltiave rates of synthesis of individual MM-s. Several post-transcriptional and post-translational steps play an important role in biosynthesis of MM-S offering a multitude of possibilities for genetic and/or aquired anomalies. Recent progress in the descriptive and dynamic biochemistry of MM-s sheds new light on these anomalies which condition a whole class of diseases (the diseases of the intercellular matrix or matrix pathology). The molecular and cellular mechanisms of several of these diseases start to be understood. As the great majority of the important disease of occidental societies (such as vascular and articular diseases, diabetes, and the pathology of aging) belong to this category, intensive research in matrix biology and pathology as well as of its teaching in the medical curriculum should be considered as first priorities.