title: Molecular interactions in extracellular matrix of tendon.
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 extracellular matrix-tendon interactions leading to tissue degeneration and rupture.
authors.affiliation: Department of Experimental Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DSBSC), University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.
authors.forename: Evgenia
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Karousou
authors.forename: Mario
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ronga
authors.forename: Davide
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Vigetti
authors.forename: Daniele
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Barcolli
authors.forename: Alberto
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Passi
authors.forename: Nicola
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Maffulli
mesh_terms: D003094:Collagen / Q000378:metabolism*; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000378:metabolism*; D015870:Gene Expression; D006025:Glycosaminoglycans / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases / Q000378:metabolism*; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000378:metabolism*; D013710:Tendons / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D006025:Glycosaminoglycans; D003094:Collagen; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases