In this review, we discuss the structure and function of the extracellular matrix protein family of tenascins with emphasis on their involvement in human pathologies. The article is divided into the following sections: Introduction: the tenascin family of extracellular matrix proteins; Structural roles: tenascin-X deficiency and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome; Tenascins as modulators of cell adhesion, migration, and growth; Role of tenascin-C in inflammation; Regulation of tenascins by mechanical stress: implications for wound healing and regeneration; Association of tenascin-C with cancer: antibodies as diagnostic and therapeutic tools; Conclusion and perspectives.

Copyright 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.