Effects of extracellular matrix on the malignant phenotype

Extracellular matrix molecules, including collagen, glycosaminoglycans (usually linked to a protein core as proteoglycan), elastin, and glycoproteins, influence the initiation and maintenance of differentiation of a variety of cell types. These molecules bind to the cell surface at specific sites and nonspecifically by electrostatic forces. Such interactions may alter the cell's response to growth and differentiation factors. After neoplastic transformation, most cells retain some dependence on these factors. This paper reviews the influence of matrix components on the phenotype of a variety of malignant cells and concludes that in vitro studies of malignant cell behavior require the utilization of an appropriate microenvironment.