Skeletal Muscle Extracellular Matrix: Composition, Structure and Function

Dear Colleagues,

Skeletal muscle is the largest component in humans, accounting for over almost 40% of body mass, and it is predominantly composed of myofiber, providing mobility, protecting and supporting the skeleton, and controlling body temperature and glucose homeostasis. Since the skeletal muscle regulates the whole body’s homeostasis, disturbances of its function result in multiple diseases, including metabolic disorders, cachexia, and sarcopenia, as well as cardiac and renal failures. Muscle fibers reside in a three-dimensional and highly organized scaffolding known as the extracellular matrix (ECM). ECM provides structural support for surrounding cells and serves mechano-biochemical roles in cells. It consists of a range of structural molecules, including many fibrillar and non-fibrillar molecules. In addition to being essential structural elements, ECM molecules have important functional roles in the regulation of key cellular events viz. proliferation, adhesion, migration, differentiation, and survival. Any type of disruption (structural or metabolic) in the ECM or dysfunction of the ECM components may result in several pathological conditions, including metabolic disorders and cancers. Several drugs have been documented to modulate ECM assemblies, including physiological changes, beyond their key targets and ECM metabolism.

This Special Issue will highlight new research on ECM skeletal muscle, its modes of action, and its function in various diseases using state-of-the-art research techniques. Novel therapeutic approaches including in silico, in vitro, and in vivo experiments to target potential ECM components, are also encouraged. Original research papers, review articles, communications, perspectives, and commentaries are welcome.

We look forward to your contributions to this Special Issue.

Prof. Inho Choi
Dr. Khurshid Ahmad
Guest Editors

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