Extracellular Matrix Review

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on the Extracellular Matrix, including its structure, function, and components.

What are the primary functions of the extracellular matrix (ECM)?

Reservoir for water, ions, nutrients; maintains strength and rigidity of tissue; medium for nutrient and metabolic waste exchange.

What are the main components of the extracellular matrix?

Structural proteins (collagens and elastins), proteoglycans, and adhesive glycoproteins (fibronectins, laminins, and integrins).

What is collagen and its role in the ECM?

Collagen is a protein that provides strength and forms fibers within the extracellular matrix.

What are glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and their significance in the ECM?

Linear polysaccharides contributing to the hydrated ground substance of the ECM.

What is the structure of proteoglycans?

Proteoglycans consist of a core protein with attached glycosaminoglycans.

What is the role of laminin in the basal lamina?

Laminin binds epithelia to components of the basal lamina and provides attachment sites for integrins and collagen.

How does integrin function in relation to the ECM?

Integrins are cell surface receptors that bind to ECM components and integrate the cytoskeleton with the ECM.

What is the composition of the basal lamina?

The basal lamina contains type IV collagen fibers and laminin, serving as a structural support and permeability barrier.

Describe the formation of collagen fibers.

Collagen is synthesized as procollagen in a triple helix, secreted, and transformed into tropocollagen, which then self-assembles into fibrils.

What distinguishes type I collagen from type II and type III?

Type I collagen has the largest fibers and is ubiquitous; type II is found in cartilage; type III is reticular.