Extracellular Matrix FactsBook

The functional requirements of connective tissues in higher animals necessitated the evolution of complex and diverse proteins. These extracellular matrix macromolecules provide not only strenght and support, but also exert profound influences on cell behaviour. This book collates and presents key facts relating to these important macromolecules. It is designed to provide quick and easy access to up-to-date and pertient information. Each entry sunuumes essential details of the protein (human origin where possible) and comprises an introductory paragraph and sections on molecular structure, protein isolation, primary structure, structural and fttnctional sites, gene structure and references for in-depth reading. Structural and functional sites detail specific amino acid(s) where a particular stnictural and functional property is deteermined fully. When this function can be attributed to a specific sequence but is not narrowed down to a defined amino acid dequence, it is included in a cartoon of the polypeptide chain molecule and described under molecular structure. If a property is not assignable to a specific region it is described in the introductory paragraph.
The authors have endeavoured to highlight repeat structures in the primary sequence by a visual presentation in the form of a cartoon. These cartoons emphasise the modular nature of many of the protein macromolecules and serve to highlight the importance of structural motifs in proteins. The book is compiled by members of one of the foremost centres of matrix biochemistry in the world, giving additional authority to each entry. It is an essential reference for those engaged in research on all the various facts of connective tissues. This is the fourth volume in the FactsBook series. It contains over 40 entries. Each entry has a common fomiat, using a minimum of text, and includes information on the sequence, ftmction, expression and physicochemical properties of each protein. The volume covers collagens, proteoglycans and noncollagenous proteins. Section 1: Introductory Material. Section II: Extracellular Matrix Proteins.