Role of Basement Membranes in Cell Differentiation (original) (raw)

The role of basement membranes as specialized extracellular matrices is pivotal in supporting epithelial cells and influencing their differentiation and behavior. This paper explores the structure, composition, and functions of basement membranes, particularly focusing on key components such as laminin and collagen IV. It highlights how these components interact and their impact on cell adhesion, proliferation, and maintenance of cellular functions, emphasizing the varying activity of laminin isotypes based on developmental stages and tissue specificity.