Molecular Biology of the Collagen Matrix in the Heart

This work explores the molecular and cellular biology of the collagen matrix of the heart. Collagen is the major protein of the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix of the heart is an intricate network, with its importance becoming apparent to the developmental and functional integrity of the mycardium. The book provides a comprehensive introduction to the collagen matrix in general, including information on collagen types and their tissue specificity. It then discusses different aspects of the molecular and cellular biology of the collagen matrix, the impact of growth factors on the expression of the mycardial collagen matrix, and myocardial collagen gene regulation under pathophysiological conditions.