18 - Proteoglycans and Extracellular Matrix Components

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to proteoglycans and components of the extracellular matrix as per the lecture notes.

Hyaluronan

A GAG (glycosaminoglycan) that is not attached to protein and resists compressive pressures in tissues.

Proteoglycan

A complex consisting of a core protein and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains, essential for cartilage structure.

Glycosaminoglycan (GAG)

Long unbranched polysaccharides consisting of repeating disaccharide units, important for hydration and tissue structure.

Aggrecan

The core protein within proteoglycan complexes found in cartilage.

Disaccharide

A type of carbohydrate formed from two monosaccharides; examples include hyaluron, chondroitin sulfate, and keratan sulfate.

Chondroitin Sulfate

A GAG that is a significant component of cartilage, contributing to its structure and function.

Heparin

A highly sulfated GAG involved in anti-coagulation and cellular signaling.

Fibronectin

A connective tissue glycoprotein that plays a key role in cell adhesion and migration.

Laminin

A glycoprotein found in the basement membrane that facilitates cell binding and tissue structure.

RGD sequence

A specific peptide sequence (Arginine-Glycine-Aspartic acid) instrumental in mediating cell adhesion.

Link proteins

Proteins that bind hyaluronan to aggrecan, forming larger proteoglycan aggregates.

Cell adhesion

The process by which cells attach to the extracellular matrix or other cells, essential for tissue and organ structure.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network of proteins and carbohydrates surrounding cells that provides structural and biochemical support to the tissue.

Nidogen

A glycoprotein that links components of the basement membrane, including laminin and type IV collagen.

proteoglycans and GAGs

hydration, cell adhesion, bind growth factors, tissue structure