**The Role of Extracellular Matrix Proteins in the Urinary Tract: A Literature Review**

Cevdet Kaya and Bahadır Şahin

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/62807

#### **Abstract**

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a noncellular component with a crucial role on tissue morphogenesis, differentiation and hemostasis within all tissues and organs. With advancement in the technology and increased data on ECM components, it was realized that many conditions in urinary tract have a close relation with the composition of ECM in the affected tissue. According to some basic research studies, ECM composition may give us important information about the prognosis and progression of disease in addition to the cause and pathophysiology of the diseases such as congenital ureterovesical and ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Afterwards, with better understanding of ECM one can develop new treatment and follow-up models. This chapter will summarize the evidence-based role of ECM in urinary tract conditions.

**Keywords:** urinary tract, extracellular matrix, immunohistochemistry, ureteropelvic junction, ureterovesical junction
