Extracellular Matrix and Cell Adhesion

This set of flashcards reviews key concepts related to the extracellular matrix, cell adhesion, and related medical implications, based on lecture notes.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A diverse collection of molecules selected by cells that influence their behavior, important for cell adhesion, specificity, differentiation, and more.

Cadherins

A type of cell adhesion molecule (CAM) that binds cells of the same type (homophilic) and is calcium-dependent.

E-cadherin

A specific type of cadherin found in epithelial cells, crucial for cell adhesion and maintaining tissue structure.

Integrins

Receptors that facilitate cell-ECM adhesion and play a role in signaling between cells and their extracellular environment.

Hyaluronan

A glycosaminoglycan that binds to CD44 receptors, involved in cellular hydration and mediating diapedesis.

Scurvy

A condition resulting from vitamin C deficiency, leading to collagen synthesis failure, characterized by bleeding and skin issues.

Fibronectin

A multiadhesive ECM protein that binds to various molecules and plays a key role in cell adhesion and wound healing.

Glycosaminoglycans

Long, rigid disaccharide polymers that bind water, affecting osmotic pressure and hydration in the ECM.

Anoikis

A form of programmed cell death that occurs when cells detach from the ECM, particularly in substrate-dependent cells.

Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency

A condition caused by defective integrin receptors, hindering the exit of leukocytes from the bloodstream, leading to increased infection risk.

Osteogenesis Imperfecta

A genetic disorder causing brittle bones due to collagen defects, categorized into types based on the severity of collagen synthesis issues.

Descent’s membrane

The deeper layer of the cornea responsible for controlling osmotic balance; its dysfunction can lead to cataracts.

N-CAM

Neural cell adhesion molecule involved in neural development and signaling through homophilic interactions.

Laminin

A large, multiadhesive glycoprotein in the ECM that is crucial for supporting cell differentiation and tissue organization.

Polysialic acid (PSA)

A glycan that contributes to hydration and is present on N-CAM, playing a significant role during neural development.

Procollagen

The soluble precursor to collagen that is secreted from cells and undergoes modifications outside the cell before becoming collagen.

Stem Cell Therapy

A treatment strategy utilizing stem cells to regenerate tissues or organs, showing promise in various medical applications.

Type 1 collagen

The most abundant collagen type in the human body, critical for providing strength and structure in bones and tendons.

Clinical Relevance of ECM

Many components of the ECM are implicated in diseases, making understanding ECM biology essential for medical applications.