The extracellular matrix (ECM) consists in a complex meshwork of collagens, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans, which serves a scaffolding function and provides viscoelastic properties to the tissues. ECM acts as a biomechanical support, and actively participates in cell signaling to induce tissular changes in response to environmental forces and soluble cues. Given the remarkable complexity of the inner ear architecture, its exquisite structure-function relationship, and the importance of vibration-induced stimulation of its sensory cells, ECM is instrumental to hearing. Many factors of the matrisome are involved in cochlea development, function and maintenance, as evidenced by the variety of ECM proteins associated with hereditary deafness. This review describes the structural and functional ECM components in the auditory organ and how they are modulated over time and following injury.

细胞外基质 (ECM) 由胶原蛋白、糖蛋白和蛋白聚糖组成的复杂网络组成，具有支架功能并为组织提供粘弹性。 ECM 充当生物力学支持，并积极参与细胞信号传导，诱导组织变化以响应环境力和可溶性信号。鉴于内耳结构的显着复杂性、其精致的结构与功能关系以及振动引起的感觉细胞刺激的重要性，ECM 对听力至关重要。基质体的许多因素都参与耳蜗的发育、功能和维护，与遗传性耳聋相关的多种 ECM 蛋白就证明了这一点。这篇综述描述了听觉器官中的结构和功能 ECM 组件，以及它们如何随着时间的推移和受伤后进行调节。