The extracellular matrix of eukaryotic cells STUDENT.pdf: BIOL-120-01 (22170.202601)

What is the extracellular matrix (ECM)?

The ECM is a complex network of proteins and carbohydrates that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

List the main components of the extracellular matrix.

Proteins (like collagen and elastin), glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and polysaccharides.

What role does collagen play in the ECM?

Collagen provides tensile strength to tissues.

Define glycoproteins in the context of the ECM.

Glycoproteins are proteins with carbohydrate chains attached, playing key roles in cell adhesion and communication.

What is a proteoglycan?

A proteoglycan is a type of glycoprotein that is heavily glycosylated, contributing to the gel-like consistency of the ECM.

How does the ECM influence cell behavior?

The ECM can regulate cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation.

What is the importance of the ECM in tissue repair?

The ECM provides a scaffold for cell attachment and growth during tissue regeneration.

Describe the relationship between the ECM and cancer cells.

Cancer cells can alter the ECM composition to promote invasion and metastasis.

What are integrins?

Integrins are transmembrane receptors that facilitate cell-ECM adhesion.

Explain the term 'basement membrane'.

The basement membrane is a thin layer of ECM that supports epithelial tissue and separates it from underlying tissues.

What is the function of elastin in the ECM?

Elastin allows tissues to stretch and recoil, providing flexibility.

Identify the role of fibronectin.

Fibronectin is a glycoprotein that helps cells adhere to the ECM and plays a role in wound healing.

What does the term 'mechanotransduction' refer to?

Mechanotransduction refers to the process by which cells sense and respond to mechanical signals from the ECM.

How do the components of the ECM interact?

They interact through structural and signaling pathways that promote tissue integrity and functionality.

What is the significance of ECM remodeling?

ECM remodeling is crucial for development, wound healing, and adaptation to mechanical stress.

Describe the impact of aging on the ECM.

Aging can lead to changes in the ECM, such as reduced collagen production and increased stiffness.

How is the ECM involved in stem cell niche?

The ECM provides essential signals that maintain stem cell properties and regulate differentiation.

What are matricellular proteins?

Matricellular proteins are non-structural ECM proteins that modulate cellular interactions and signaling.

How can ECM composition affect drug delivery?

ECM composition can influence the diffusion and retention of therapeutic agents in tissues.

What key role does the ECM play in inflammation?

The ECM can modulate inflammatory responses by regulating cell migration and signaling.

What happens during ECM degradation?

ECM degradation allows for tissue remodeling and can contribute to pathological conditions if uncontrolled.

What techniques are used to study the ECM?

Techniques include biochemical assays, imaging methods like microscopy, and biomechanical testing.

How do growth factors interact with the ECM?

Growth factors bind to ECM components, influencing cell behavior and tissue response.

Give an example of a disease associated with ECM dysfunction.

Osteogenesis imperfecta is a disorder associated with defective collagen production in the ECM.

Why is the ECM referred to as a dynamic structure?

The ECM is dynamic because it undergoes constant remodeling based on cellular activities and external signals.

How does the ECM contribute to the process of apoptosis?

The ECM can influence apoptosis by providing survival signals or by detaching cells from survival cues.

what does apoptosis mean in regard to ECM

Apoptosis refers to the programmed cell death mechanism, where the ECM plays a critical role by either promoting or inhibiting this process through the signaling molecules it contains.