Mesangial cell-matrix interactions in glomerular inflammation

Specific interactions between cells and components of the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM) or underlying basement membrane have been shown to modulate cell behaviour, in culluro and in vivo. There is evidence that extensive 'cross-talk' occurs between glomerular mesangial cells (MCs), ECM molecules, and soluble mediator substances affecting the proliferative and synthetic-secretory phenotype of MCs. This is likely to be relevant for the behaviour of MCs during embryonic development, disease processes of glomeruli, and tissue repair. The potential biologic and clinical relevance of cell-matrix interactions in the glomerulus are discussed in this brief review of selected aspects of recent investigations concerning the mesangial matrix and its interactions with MCs.