The NuRD Chromatin-Remodeling Enzyme CHD4 Promotes Embryonic Vascular Integrity by Transcriptionally Regulating Extracellular Matrix Proteolysis Researchers showed that the NuRD ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling complex promotes vascular integrity by preventing excessive extracellualr matrix proteolysis in vivo. [PLoS Genet] Full Article Mutations in the Collagen XII Gene Define a New Form of Extracellular Matrix Related Myopathy In a cohort of 24 patients with a Bethlem myopathy-like phenotype, scientists first sequenced 12 candidate genes based on their function, including genes for known binding partners of collagen VI, and those enzymes involved in its correct post translational modification, assembly and secretion. Proceeding to whole exome sequencing, they identified mutations in the COL12A1 gene, a member of the FACIT collagens (fibril-associated collagens with interrupted triple helices) in five individuals from two families. [Hum Mol Genet] Abstract The Extracellular Matrix Glycoprotein Tenascin-R Regulates Neurogenesis during Development and in the Adult Dentate Gyrus of Mice The authors provide evidence that the extracellular matrix molecule tenascin-R – being predominantly expressed, among neurons, by subpopulation of interneurons – plays a role in the generation of GABAergic and granule neurons in the murine dentate gyrus by regulating fate determination of neural stem/progenitor cells. [J Cell Sci] Abstract Regulation on Mechanical Properties of Collagen: Enhanced Bioactivities of Metallofullerol This study is the first attempt to apply nanomedicines to manipulate the biophysical property of collagen matrix, providing a new sight to target extracellular matrix in cancer therapy. A simple approach to regulate the stiffness of collagen matrix by fullerol derivative nanoparticles is reported. [Nanomedicine] Abstract Short Stimulation of Electro-Responsive PAA/Fibrin Hydrogel Induces Collagen Production The ability of electro-responsive polyacrylic acid/fibrin hydrogel to promote collagen production and remodeling was investigated by 3D culturing and conditioning of smooth muscle cells. [Tissue Eng Part C Methods] Abstract Design and Characterization of an Injectable Tendon Hydrogel: A Scaffold for Guided Tissue Regeneration in the Musculoskeletal System Lyophilized decellularized tendons were milled and enzymatically digested to form an extracellular matrix (ECM) solution. The ECM solution properties were assessed by proteome analysis with mass spectrometry, and the material’s rheological properties were determined both as a function of frequency, temperature and time. In vivo application of the gel in a rat model was assessed for remodeling and host cell repopulation. [Tissue Eng Part A] Abstract Bioactive Self-Assembled Peptide Nanofibers for Corneal Stroma Regeneration Researchers report a bioactive peptide nanofiber scaffold system for corneal tissue regeneration. These nanofibers are formed by self-assembling peptide amphiphile molecules containing laminin and fibronectin inspired sequences. [Acta Biomater] Abstract Histology of CorMatrix Bioscaffold 5 Years after Pericardial Closure CorMatrix is a non-crosslinked, acellular bioscaffold used for pericardial closure and cardiac tissue repair. A redo sternotomy 5 years after bypass grafting and pericardial reconstruction afforded the opportunity to explant the bioscaffold and examine it histologically. [Ann Thorac Surg] Abstract | Press Release Construction of a Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor-Tethered Multi-Functional Extracellular Matrix Protein through Coiled-Coil Structures for Neurite Outgrowth Induction An artificial multi-functional extracellular matrix (ECM) protein, tethered with a growth factor, was developed for neurite outgrowth induction. The designed ECM protein was comprised of an elastin-like peptide, as a structural unit, as well as the AG73 peptide sequence derived from the laminin and the C3 peptide sequence, which binds to neural cell adhesion molecules as functional units. [Biomed Mater] Abstract |