[Frontiers in Bioscience E2, 1-12, January 1, 2010]

Molecular interactions in extracellular matrix of tendon

Evgenia Karousou1, Mario Ronga2, Davide Vigetti1, Daniele Barcolli2, Alberto Passi1, Nicola Maffulli3

1Department of Experimental Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DSBSC), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy, 2Department of Orthopaedic and Traumatology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy, 3Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Keele University School of Medicine, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire, UK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Abstract
2. Introduction
3. Tendon ECM
3.1. Tendon components
3.2. Metabolism of collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins
3.2.1. Structures
3.2.2. GAG
3.2.3.Turn-over
3.2.4. ECM
4. Tendon nutrients supply
5. Functional role of ECM in tendon
6. From gene expression to tendon rupture
7. Perspectives
8. Aknowledgement
9. References

1. ABSTRACT

Tendon is a poorly vascularized and highly specialized connective tissue containing few scattered cells that play an important role in the musculoskeletal apparatus by resisting mechanical stress. Because of the slow rate of the metabolism of its molecular components, the tendon gradually loses its mechanical properties and may rupture upon an array of physical activities. In this report, we discuss the molecular changes involved in the extracelluar matrix-tendon interactions leading to tissue degeneration and rupture.