Basement membrane synthesis and degradation.

The biological importance of complex interactions between cells and extracellular matrix has become widely recognized. For normal epithelial cells, contact with the matrix is limited to the basement membrane. Our understanding of the composition and assembly of basement membranes is increasing, as is our understanding of the mechanisms by which synthesis and degradation of basement membranes are controlled. Basement membrane abnormalities may result from disease and may cause disease. Papers in this edition of the Journal of Pathology discuss changes in basement membrane composition in disease, and add yet another link to the many connections between basement membranes, fibrosis and the control of cell proliferation.