The Effects of Ionising and Non-Ionising Electromagnetic Radiation on Extracellular Matrix Proteins

(2021)
Method

Literature Search & Selection Scope:
Prioritized studies on ECM-specific radiation damage (collagen, elastin, fibronectin, etc.).

Included:
In vitro experiments (e.g., irradiated ECM protein solutions).

In vivo/ex vivo models (e.g., irradiated skin/breast tissue).

Source

Ionising:
Cosmic radiation
Radon gas

Non-Ionising:
Sunlight

Result

Well-studied: Cellular-level radiation effects

Understudied: ECM-specific damage in:

Breast stroma (ionizing radiation)

Skin dermis (non-ionizing radiation)

Clinical Consequences

Potential ECM Impacts:

  1. Structural Changes:
    Collagen/elastin degradation
  1. Functional Disruption:
    Altered tissue mechanics
  1. Long-term Effects:
    Impaired wound healing
    Fibrosis risk