Integrins bind extracellular matrix fibrils and associate with intracellular actin filaments
through a variety of cytoskeletal linker proteins to mechanically connect intracellular and …

The collagens represent a family of trimeric extracellular matrix molecules used by cells for
structural integrity and other functions. The three α chains that form the triple helical part of …

BACKGROUND: Since publication in 2000 of the Second International Consensus Report
on Diagnosis and Classification of Epidermolysis Bullosa, many advances have been made …

The epidermis functions in skin as first defense line or barrier against environmental
impacts, resting on extracellular matrix (ECM) of the dermis underneath. Both compartments …

There is a distinct boundary between the dermis and epidermis in the human skin called the
basement membrane, a dense collagen network that creates undulations of the dermal …

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease in the United
States and is a major cause of cardiovascular disease and death. DN develops insidiously …

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a severe inherited skin-blistering
disorder caused by mutations in the COL7A1 gene that lead to reduced type-VII collagen …

The view of extracellular matrix (ECM) has evolved from a merely scaffolding and space
filling tissue element to an interface actively controlling cellular activities and tissue …

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is a severe skin fragility disorder associated with
trauma-induced blistering, progressive soft tissue scarring, and increased risk of skin cancer …

Kindler Syndrome (KS), characterized by transient skin blistering followed by abnormal
pigmentation, skin atrophy, and skin cancer, is caused by mutations in the FERMT1 gene …