Extracellular matrix turnover and outflow resistance

Normal homeostatic adjustment of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) involves remodeling the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the trabecular meshwork (TM). This entails sensing elevated IOP, releasing numerous activated proteinases to degrade existing ECM and concurrent biosynthesis of replacement ECM components. To increase or decrease IOP, the quantity, physical properties and/or organization of new components should be somewhat different from those replaced in order to modify outflow resistance. ECM degradation and replacement biosynthesis in the outflow pathway must be tightly controlled and focused to retain the complex structural organization of the tissue. Recently identified podosome- or invadopodia-like structures (PILS) may aid in the focal degradation of ECM and organization of replacement components.