Perspectives on the extracellular matrix in inflammatory bowel disease and bowel decellularization protocols

Figure 1 Summary of changes in the extracellular matrix in inflammatory bowel disease. There is an increase in collagen fibres influenced by the action of metalloproteinases, contributing to the development of fibrosis. There is a reduction in elastic fibres and a change in glycosaminoglycans, affecting the elasticity and hydration of the tissue. ECM: Extracellular matrix; MMP: Matrix metalloproteinase; GAG’s: Glycosaminoglycans.