It has been found that various extracellular matrix (ECM) probably play an important role in the occurrence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), including structural proteins, adhesive proteins, anti-adhesive proteins, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP) Structural proteins, including collagen and elastic fiber family, are the major non-cellular components of PVR membrane, and could promote contraction of membrane. Adhesive proteins, including fibronectin, vitronectin, laminin, could promote adhesion between cells and ECM in PVR, they promote the attachment, migration and differentiation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Anti-adhesive proteins, including thrombospondin-1, osteonectin, tenascin, could promote RPE migration and tissue remodeling of PVR, etc. MMPs and TIMPs could degrade some components of ECM, enhance permeability of blood vessel and promote neovascularization in PVR.