The Extracellular Matrix in Health and Disease

This book connects naturopathic medicine modalities with restoring extracellular matrix function. It begins with an overview of the regulatory functions of the extracellular matrix. At one time, this area in between cells was considered support material, now it is understood that the life of the cell is dependent upon its function. The architecture of the ECM and the particular geometric qualities of its molecules have an enormous impact on proper function of cells. The human body and its organs and tissue can experience various levels of dysfunction ranging from a relatively easy to reverse hypofunction to impaired self-regulation, inflammation, fibrosis and extracellular matrix breakdown, and finally organ failure. Through all of these stages, there are discrete changes to the ECM, which contribute to, and are exacerbated by the local dysfunction. Naturopathic therapies, including nutritional factors, plant extracts, manual techniques, hydrotherapy, and low dose hormetins, can have a stabilizing and repairing effect on the ECM. Moreover, since the ECM represents an interconnected microtuble, transmemberane, and protein scaffold that is pan-cellular, there are opportunities for whole person therapy in delivering treatments that impact the ECM. Cancer, a disease that starts with genetic alterations, is extremely active in the ECM, depositing, modifying, and destroying ECM as part of a strategy of proliferation and dissemination. Natural agents that work to combat these influences of tumor cells on the ECM and its resident fibroblasts and macrophages are important to be aware of. This exciting and expanding field of study deserves a look in the light of naturopathic therapeutics. This is an ideal guide for clinicians using naturopathic methods to assist their patients.