The extracellular matrix: structure, composition, biological functions, diseases, and therapeutic targets
Khairunnisa Mohd Kamal·Siti Fathiah Masre·Nurul‐Syakima Ab Mutalib·Eng Wee Chua·Gayathri Thevi Selvarajah·Ahmad Rohi Ghazali·Nadiah Abu
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a highly organised and dynamic regulator of tissue structural integrity and biochemical signalling, and its dysregulation is a hallmark of fibrosis and cancer. Recent evidence highlights the critical role of epigenetic mechanisms in controlling ECM-related gene expression and remodelling activity. This review integrates recent advances in understanding how epigenetic mechanisms govern ECM composition, remodelling, and mechanotransduction, and how reciprocal ECM-