Hyaluronan as a therapeutic target in human diseases

Special issue: Extracellular matrix: Therapeutic tools and targets in cancer treatment

Extracellular matrix (ECM) constituents play not only structural roles during development and tissue homeostasis, but also many biological functions throughout life. Molecular diversity and a vast interactome provide the basis for this multi-functionality. Moreover, native or processed ECM molecules interact with various receptors, thereby activating signaling pathways that control cell differentiation, proliferation, adhesion and migration, all relevant to tumor biology. Thus, there is an emerging field focused on exploiting ECM components as novel therapeutic targets in the treatment of cancer and other diseases, providing potent tools to advance drug delivery and tissue penetration. In this special issue we provide a critical appraisal of this emerging field focusing on: 1) ECM proteins (matricellular proteins, collagen, elastin, fibronectin, proteoglycans), integrins, and protease-facilitated drug delivery; 2) ECM-derived therapeutics (hyaluronan, heparin, heparan sulfate), 3) ECM-like biomaterials, and 4) ECM as critical determinant in drug efficacy, with special emphasis on applications in tumor treatment.

Hyaluronan in adipose tissue: Beyond dermal filler and therapeutic carrier

Adipose hyaluronan is increasingly recognized as an active player in adipose tissue fibrosis and metabolic dysfunction. However, this role poses as many challenges as opportunities for therapeutic targeting of adipose tissue dysfunction during nutrient oversupply.