The dynamic interaction of the extracellular matrix in cardiac remodeling.

The dynamic interaction of the extracellular matrix (ECM) with the various cellular components of the heart is a fundamental process in cardiac remodeling. These cellular components include myocytes, and connective tissue cells adapt to the signals from the extracellular environment. Critical to this dynamic interaction are several classes of transmembrane receptors that provide both inside-out and outside-in signaling.