This holds the cells together and provides a porous pathway for the diffusion of nutrients and oxygen to individual cells. The extracellular matrix is composed of fibrous proteins and heteropolysackarides. The heteropolysacharides in turn are attached to extracellular proteins to form proteoglycans, which form enourmous aggregates, being respponsible for the gel like properties of the extracellular matrix. The research aims at describing the synthesis and secretion of various proteoglycans under normal conditions as well as during various diseases. Matrix proteins are being identified important for the construction and maintenance of the extracellular matrix.
Most cells synthesize an extracellular matrix containing among other things proteoglycans.
These consist of proteins substituted with long linear and sulphated polysaccharides of great diversity. The aim of the present project is to describe and understand the regulation of the biosynthesis of these compounds as well as their function in terms of interaction between proteoglycans and other matrix components. A special interest is taken in the signals directing the proteoglycans into various parts of the cell as well as outside the cell. The signals are being identified as various repeats of carbohydrates as well as the regulation of these signals through various growth factors and polyamines. It surrounds and interacts with all cells thereby influencing their activity.