Extracellular matrix remodeling in oral submucous fibrosis: its stage‐specific modes revealed by immunohistochemistry and <i>in situ</i> hybridization

Abstract

The results indicate that the ECM remodeling steps in OSF are similar to each phase of usual granulation tissue formation. Restricted mouth opening may be a result of loss of variety of ECM molecules including elastin into the homogeneity of collagen type I replacing muscle fibers.