Extracellular matrix molecules: endogenous danger signals as new drug targets in kidney diseases
L Schaefer - Current opinion in pharmacology, 2010 - Elsevier
Extracellular matrix (ECM) components, commonly thought to function purely as structural
elements are now demonstrated to act as signaling molecules. With the identification of
matrix-derived endogenous ligands of Toll-like and NOD-like receptors of innate immunity, a
general question about the mechanisms of soluble ECM components signaling as
autonomous triggers of sterile or enhancers of pathogen-mediated inflammation gained
notable relevance. They act as fundamental danger signals signifying tissue injury by …
elements are now demonstrated to act as signaling molecules. With the identification of
matrix-derived endogenous ligands of Toll-like and NOD-like receptors of innate immunity, a
general question about the mechanisms of soluble ECM components signaling as
autonomous triggers of sterile or enhancers of pathogen-mediated inflammation gained
notable relevance. They act as fundamental danger signals signifying tissue injury by …