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Related Concept Videos

The Extracellular Matrix01:42

The Extracellular Matrix

In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.Composition of the Extracellular MatrixThe extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse molecules.
The Extracellular Matrix01:29

The Extracellular Matrix

Overview
In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.
Composition of the Extracellular Matrix
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse...
Extracellular Matrix01:26

Extracellular Matrix

Unlike epithelial tissue, which is composed of cells closely packed with little or no extracellular space in between, connective tissue cells are dispersed in a matrix. This extracellular matrix (ECM) is composed of fibrous proteins like collagen, elastin, and fibronectin in a ground substance consisting of interstitial fluid, cell adhesion proteins, and proteoglycans. The proteoglycans form a gel-like material in the spaces between cells and provide hydration, buffering, binding, and force...
Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces01:13

Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces

In animal cells, the extracellular matrix allows cells within tissues to withstand external stresses and transmits signals from the outside of the cell to the inside. The extracellular matrix is extensive, and its composition varies between different types of tissues. For example, the reticular fibers and ground substance make up the ECM in loose connective tissue, while collagen and bone minerals make up the ECM of bone tissue. 
Anchoring junctions mechanically attach a cell to the...
Overview of Cell-Matrix Interactions01:24

Overview of Cell-Matrix Interactions

The extracellular matrix or ECM holds cells together to form a tissue and allows the cells within the tissue to communicate. ECM comprises proteins such as fibronectin, collagen, laminin, etc. The most abundant protein in this space is collagen. Collagen fibers are interwoven with carbohydrate-containing protein molecules called proteoglycans. ECM allows cell migration and provides a structural scaffold at cell adhesion that anchors the cell when the extracellular matrix proteins interact with...
Nervous Tissue: Glial Cells01:31

Nervous Tissue: Glial Cells

Glia, or neuroglia, are vital support cells that assist neurons in their functions. The term "glia" originates from the Greek word for "glue," reflecting their role in holding the nervous system together. These cells can be categorized into six types: four in the central nervous system (CNS) and two in the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
The CNS glial cell includes the astrocytes, the oligodendrocytes, the microglia, and the ependymal cells.
Astrocytes are star-shaped glial cells that interact...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Preparation of Tunable Extracellular Matrix Microenvironments to Evaluate Schwann Cell Phenotype Specification
07:50

Preparation of Tunable Extracellular Matrix Microenvironments to Evaluate Schwann Cell Phenotype Specification

Published on: June 2, 2020

Extracellular matrix: functions in the nervous system.

Claudia S Barros1, Santos J Franco, Ulrich Müller

  • 1The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Cell Biology, Dorris Neuroscience Center, La Jolla, California 92037, USA.

Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology
|December 3, 2010
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in nervous system development and function. Specific ECM molecules influence neural stem cell differentiation, neuronal migration, and synapse maturation.

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Microgel-Extracellular Matrix Composite Support for the Embedded 3D Printing of Human Neural Constructs
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Microgel-Extracellular Matrix Composite Support for the Embedded 3D Printing of Human Neural Constructs

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Last Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Preparation of Tunable Extracellular Matrix Microenvironments to Evaluate Schwann Cell Phenotype Specification
07:50

Preparation of Tunable Extracellular Matrix Microenvironments to Evaluate Schwann Cell Phenotype Specification

Published on: June 2, 2020

Microgel-Extracellular Matrix Composite Support for the Embedded 3D Printing of Human Neural Constructs
07:48

Microgel-Extracellular Matrix Composite Support for the Embedded 3D Printing of Human Neural Constructs

Published on: May 5, 2023

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • The nervous system extensively utilizes extracellular matrix (ECM) glycoproteins during development and in adulthood.
  • Neural cells (stem cells, neurons, glia) possess receptors for specific ECM molecules, mediating critical interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize recent findings on the specific functions of defined ECM molecules.
  • To highlight the impact of ECM on nervous system development and function.

Main Methods:

  • Review of functional in vitro studies.
  • Analysis of genetic studies in mouse models.

Main Results:

  • ECM molecules influence neural stem cell differentiation.
  • ECM affects neuronal migration and axonal tract formation.
  • ECM is critical for synapse maturation and function in both central and peripheral nervous systems.

Conclusions:

  • The extracellular matrix is a key regulator of diverse neurodevelopmental processes.
  • Understanding specific ECM molecule functions is vital for comprehending nervous system development and function.