The Function of Extracellular Matrix for Skin Health and Beauty
A special issue of Cosmetics (ISSN 2079-9284). This special issue belongs to the section "Cosmetic Dermatology".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2025 | Viewed by 120
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a fundamental role in the functioning and structure of tissues and organs in multicellular organisms. Composed of a complex network of fibrous proteins, glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans, the ECM is not merely a physical and biochemical support structure for the surrounding cells but also plays a crucial role in cellular adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation. It is essential in cell communication mechanisms, is actively involved in signal transduction, and regulates the cellular microenvironment. Alterations in the composition or organization of the ECM are associated with various diseases. In dermatology, the ECM plays a critical role in the skin's health, maintenance, and regeneration, directly influencing the appearance and functionality of this tissue and contributing to its structural integrity. With aging, there is a progressive degradation of the ECM, leading to reduced elasticity, the appearance of wrinkles, aging, and a decreased regenerative capacity of the skin. Changes in the constituent components of the ECM are directly associated with several dermatological pathologies, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hypertrophic scars, vitiligo, and others. Therefore, restoring and preserving the ECM are primary objectives in clinical and esthetic dermatology. Therapies such as applying hyaluronic acid, a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan essential for ECM organization, collagen biostimulators, and laser treatments aim to stimulate the production of ECM components to improve skin firmness, hydration, and texture. Thus, the ECM is fundamental to skin health and esthetics, playing a central role in its regeneration, maintenance, and aging. Strategies to preserve or restore ECM integrity are essential in treating dermatological diseases and combating skin aging, underscoring its importance in modern dermatological practice.
Prof. Dr. Maria Aparecida Silva Pinhal
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- ECM
- skin diseases
- aging
- proteoglycans
- hyaluronic acid
- glycosidases
- metalloproteases
- collagen
- laser therapy
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