Extracellular matrix: the critical contributor to skeletal muscle regeneration-a comprehensive review

The regenerative ability of skeletal muscle (SM) in response to damage, injury, or disease is a highly intricate process that involves the coordinated activities of multiple cell types and biomolecular factors. Of these, extracellular matrix (ECM) is considered a fundamental component of SM regenerative ability. This review briefly discusses SM myogenesis and regeneration, the roles played by muscle satellite cells (MSCs), other cells, and ECM components, and the effects of their dysregulations on these processes. In addition, we review the various types of ECM scaffolds and biomaterials used for SM regeneration, their applications, recent advances in ECM scaffold research, and their impacts on tissue engineering and SM regeneration, especially in the context of severe muscle injury, which frequently results in substantial muscle loss and impaired regenerative capacity. This review was undertaken to provide a comprehensive overview of SM myogenesis and regeneration, the stem cells used for muscle regeneration, the significance of ECM in SM regeneration, and to enhance understanding of the essential role of the ECM scaffold during SM regeneration.

Automated summary

The regeneration of skeletal muscle is a complex process that involves various cell types and biomolecular factors, with the extracellular matrix playing a fundamental role. This review discusses skeletal muscle myogenesis and regeneration, the role of muscle satellite cells and other cells, and the effects of their dysregulation. It also covers different types of ECM scaffolds and biomaterials used for skeletal muscle regeneration, their applications, recent advancements in ECM scaffold research, and their impact on tissue engineering and severe muscle injuries.