Extracellular matrix considerations for scar-free repair and regeneration: Insights from regenerative diversity among vertebrates

James Walter Godwin, Drew Kuraitis, Nadia Alicia Rosenthal

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

59 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an essential feature of development, tissue homeostasis and recovery from injury. How the ECM responds dynamically to cellular and soluble components to support the faithful repair of damaged tissues in some animals but leads to the formation of acellular fibrotic scar tissue in others has important clinical implications. Studies in highly regenerative organisms such as the zebrafish and the salamander have revealed a specialist formulation of ECM components that support repair and regeneration, while avoiding scar tissue formation. By comparing a range of different contexts that feature scar-less healing and full regeneration vs. scarring through fibrotic repair, regenerative therapies that incorporate ECM components could be significantly enhanced to improve both regenerative potential and functional outcomes
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)47 - 55
Number of pages9
JournalInternational Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology
Volume56
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014

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