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Extracellular Matrix Components in Anatomy & Physiology

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Terms in this set (11)

  • What are the main protein fibers found in the extracellular matrix (ECM)?
    Collagen fibers, reticular fibers, and elastic fibers.
  • What is the role of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the ECM?
    GAGs are long polysaccharide chains that attract water and help maintain the ECM's gel-like consistency.
  • What is a proteoglycan in the ECM?
    A proteoglycan is a core protein with attached glycosaminoglycan chains that contribute to the ECM's structure and hydration.
  • What is a proteoglycan aggregate?
    A large complex of proteoglycans bound to a central hyaluronic acid molecule, enhancing the ECM's viscosity.
  • What is the function of glycoproteins in the ECM?
    Glycoproteins help bind cells to the ECM and assist in cell signaling and adhesion.
  • What is the phospholipid bilayer in the cell membrane?
    A double layer of phospholipids forming the basic structure of the cell membrane, providing a barrier and fluid matrix.
  • What are integral proteins in the cell membrane?
    Integral proteins span the phospholipid bilayer and function in transport, signaling, and structural support.
  • What is the extracellular fluid in the ECM?
    The fluid surrounding cells that contains nutrients, signaling molecules, and waste products.
  • Describe collagen fibers in the ECM.
    Collagen fibers provide tensile strength and structural support to tissues.
  • Describe reticular fibers in the ECM.
    Reticular fibers form a fine meshwork that supports soft tissues and organs.
  • Describe elastic fibers in the ECM.
    Elastic fibers allow tissues to stretch and recoil, providing elasticity.