*3.2. In Inflammation*

Inflammation represents a first line protection mechanism for any harmful stimuli. Some of the major events during inflammation are regulated by HS, ranging from immune cells recruitment, adhesion and rolling, to transmigration phenomena [61]. Changes in the expression of HPSGs and HS differ depending on the type of inflammatory stimuli [62]. One of the main roles of HS and HSPGs is to drive the extravasation and migration of inflammatory cells from the vasculature into tissues, where they establish and provide cytokine gradients [63]. Moreover, HSPGs are involved in developing the basement membrane barrier, providing a structure for epithelial support and regulating the transport of solutes [61,64,65]. Perlecan, agrin and collagen XVIII in ECM and basement membrane interact with matrix proteins, such as fibronectin and laminin, and provide support, resistance to mechanical stress and filtration barrier properties [66]. Ultimately, HS chains

of HSPGs bind to growth factors that are involved in tissue growth and repair, making them available at sites of tissue remodelling [67].
