Molecular Basis of Glia-ECM Interplay in Central Nervous System Homeostasis and Plasticity.

Interactions between glial cells and the central nervous system (CNS) extracellular matrix (ECM) maintain neural homeostasis and plasticity. In contrast to traditional reviews focusing on biochemistry, this work summarizes the structural and mechanical properties of major ECM subtypes, and illustrates how mechanical and biochemical signals jointly regulate glial activity via key mechanosensitive pathways. Glia in turn dynamically remodel ECM, forming a reciprocal regulatory network. This paper also analyzes characteristic mechanical disorders in Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis and traumatic brain injury, and addresses targeted therapeutic strategies. Current research challenges and emerging interdisciplinary directions are also discussed. This review provides a valuable reference for exploring neurological disease mechanisms and developing new therapies.