Matrix Molecules
Matrix Functions
Adhesives: The matrix is a complex set
of interacting components leading to cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions
for purposes of 'anchorage stability', locomotion, cell migration and morphogenesis
have become well characterized.
Biomaterials: The extracellular matrix
is the scaffold of the animal kingdom. The shape of all organisms is written
in the matrix. Weight bearing with muscle action requires ropes, pulleys
and stable struts. All of the tubular organs in the body are stengthened
and stabilized by their matrix. The elastic recoil of vessels and lungs
are matrix dependent. We are ensheathed in a coat of matrix which keeps
out organisms yet is flexible enough to allow complex function.
Filters: All nutrients and all wastes traverse
the matrix as they move from the vasculature to the cells and back. On
their way they are variably bound, sequestered, stored and probably changed....
catabolized, altered, destroyed. The glomerular basement membrane is a
well known macrofilter. The majority of cells in the body have a basement
membrane which binds growth factors, attracts nerves to junctions and has
other, as yet, undiscovered physiologies.
Texts: The matrix is a text, a record of
events which transpire around a cell and within a tissue. It is a repository
of information and a historical document, recording local events from the
time of synthesis inside the cell to events much later in the extracellular
spaces in which other events such as cell migrations, homing, inflammation
and cross-linking are occurring. These post depositional events involve
glycosylation, cross-linking, oxidation, phosphorylation and epimerization
to name a few. Some of the history of an organism is written in this text
and its epigenetic character will make it a challenge to read.
