The present review summarizes recent information on the physiology of connective tissues, in particular, control of interstitial fluid pressure (Pif) and, thereby, interstitial volume. A combination of classic physiological techniques and techniques from cellular and molecular biology have provided new insights into control of Pif by connective tissue cells and the adhesion receptors anchoring them to structural connective tissue components.
Connective tissue: Macromolecular structure and evolution