Cellular and Molecular Signaling Pathways in Matrix Remodeling in COPD
A special issue of Cells (ISSN 2073-4409). This special issue belongs to the section "Cell Signaling".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 August 2026 | Viewed by 108
Special Issue Editor
Interests: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; extracellular matrix; lung function; asthma; acute respiratory distress syndrome; immune response in COPD
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Chronic inflammation in COPD drives progressive structural alterations by the excessive release of proteolytic enzymes, particularly matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which promote degradation and remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM) components in both the small airways and the lung parenchyma. As ECM fibers are degraded by MMP activity, the lung undergoes compensatory structural reorganization, reflecting a dynamic but often dysregulated process of repair and remodeling. Alterations in major ECM constituents, particularly collagen types I and III and elastin, are thought to play a central role in the progressive loss of tissue elasticity observed during the development of emphysema. Despite the availability of clinical and surgical strategies to control respiratory symptoms associated with these structural changes, there is currently no treatment capable of restoring damaged lung tissue. Existing therapies are limited to slowing or preventing further progression of tissue destruction. Therefore, a more comprehensive understanding of the signaling pathways involved in lung injury and remodeling during the development and progression of COPD is essential to identify new molecular targets and support the development of more effective therapeutic strategies for disease management. In this Research Topic, we welcome experimental manuscripts focusing on, but not limited to, cellular and molecular signaling pathways involved in tissue remodeling during the COPD development and progression.
Dr. Fernanda D.T.Q.S. Lopes
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- COPD
- tissue remodeling
- cellular and molecular signaling pathways
- extracellular matrix components
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