Sabine Bartel

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The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a three-dimensional (3-D) network of fibrous proteins, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans that provides structural and biochemical support to cells within tissues; its composition is specific for each tissue and closely relates to the function of that tissue (1). The ECM comprises roughly 300 core matrix proteins called the matrisome with, in addition, ECM-modifying enzymes, ECM-binding growth factors, and other ECM-associated proteins (2).

ERS guidelines methodology fellowship (Alexander G. Mathioudakis, UK) ERS is committed to the development of clinical practice guidelines of the highest quality, to facilitate clinicians to practice evidence-based medicine in the diagnosis, assessment, and management of respiratory diseases. ERS guidelines are developed by task forces that are coordinated by the Guidelines Working Group and supported by the two in-house ERS guideline methodologists.