extracellular matrix

biology

Also known as: ECM

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June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex material found outside of cells, filling the spaces within tissues. It is composed of a gel-like substance containing polysaccharides and interstitial fluid, along with fibrous proteins like collagen and elastin.12

The ECM plays a crucial role in multicellular organisms by helping cells to specialize, adhere to each other, and form organized tissues. Different tissues have varying ECM compositions, influencing their properties. For instance, bone is rigid due to calcium phosphate, while tendons are strong and ropelike due to fibrous proteins. Epithelial tissues have a basal lamina, a specialized ECM layer that acts as a boundary and attachment substrate.12

Cell-matrix interactions are vital for coordinating cellular activities. Proteins embedded in the cell membrane bind to ECM components, influencing cell shape, movement, and overall function. Defects in ECM components can lead to hereditary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.13

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cell
The extracellular matrix
A substantial part of tissues is the space outside of the cells, called the extracellular space. This is filled with a composite material, known as the extracellular matrix, composed of a gel in which a number of fibrous proteins are suspended. The gel…
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A substantial part of tissues is the space outside of the cells, called the extracellular space. This is filled with a composite material, known as the extracellular matrix, composed of a gel in which a number of fibrous proteins are suspended. The gel…
Read More

cancer
Microinvasion
…is their attachment to the extracellular matrix, the network of substances secreted by cells and found between them that helps to provide structure in tissues. Normally, if a cell is unable to attach to the extracellular matrix, it dies through induction of the cell suicide program known as apoptosis. Cancer…
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…is their attachment to the extracellular matrix, the network of substances secreted by cells and found between them that helps to provide structure in tissues. Normally, if a cell is unable to attach to the extracellular matrix, it dies through induction of the cell suicide program known as apoptosis. Cancer…
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regenerative medicine
Natural scaffolds are the total extracellular matrixes (ECMs) of decellularized tissues or organs. In contrast, biomimetic scaffolds may be composed of natural materials, such as collagen or proteoglycans (proteins with long chains of carbohydrate), or built from artificial materials, such as
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Natural scaffolds are the total extracellular matrixes (ECMs) of decellularized tissues or organs. In contrast, biomimetic scaffolds may be composed of natural materials, such as collagen or proteoglycans (proteins with long chains of carbohydrate), or built from artificial materials, such as
Read More