Matrix biology

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Matrix biology is the study of the structure and function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its interactions with proximal cells.

Matrix biologists usually do both basic research into structure and cellular interactions of the ECM and applied research into how these parameters are altered in disease or other pathological states.

Matrix biologists can thus specialise in a particular class of molecule:

• collagen
• proteoglycans
• elastin
• integrins
• fibrillins
• matrix metalloproteinases

Specialities can also be by the particular ECM under study:

• cartilage
• skin
• bone
• tumours

Many matrix biologists also work closely with medical specialists and specialise in a particular disease or pathology:

• rheumatology - studying the change in ECM in cartilage and synovium in joints from rheumatoid or osteoarthritis patients
• orthopedics - studying pathological and traumatically injured cartilage and tendon
• oncology - studying how tumours and other cancers grow new ECM, metastasise and invade ECM of other tissues
• orthodontics - studying how bone remodels around teeth
• dermatology - studying ECM involved in wound healing and disease states such as scleroderma

There are many matrix biology societies who hold meetings regularly all over the world. These meetings generate a forum for matrix biologists to discuss common interests and form collaborations:

• ISMB - International Society of Matrix Biologists^[1]
• ASMB - American Society for Matrix Biology^[2]
• MBSANZ - Matrix Biology Society of Australia and New Zealand^[3]
• BSMB - British Society for Matrix Biology^[4]

[edit] External links

1. ^ http://www.ismb.org
2. ^ ASMB - American Society for Matrix Biology Home Page
3. ^ Matrix Biology
4. ^ Home