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The Extracellular Matrix01:42

The Extracellular Matrix

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The Extracellular Matrix01:29

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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
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Extracellular Matrix01:26

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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...
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Overview of Cell-Matrix Interactions01:24

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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...
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Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces01:13

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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. 
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Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are enzymes involved in the hydrolysis of proteins and glycoproteins of the extracellular matrix. MMPs are essential for the migration and proliferation of cells through the dense matrix network, throughout embryonic development, and throughout morphogenesis. The first MMP activity discovered was a collagenase in a tadpole's tail undergoing metamorphosis. The active collagen deposition and modifications lead to the morphogenesis of tadpoles into the adult...
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A Rapid, Scalable Method for the Isolation, Functional Study, and Analysis of Cell-derived Extracellular Matrix
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The extracellular matrix in development.

David A Cruz Walma1, Kenneth M Yamada1

  • 1Cell Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892-4370, USA kenneth.yamada@nih.gov david.cruzwalma@nih.gov.

Development (Cambridge, England)
|May 30, 2020
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides essential physical and signaling support for developing tissues. This review explores how ECM mechanics and biophysics regulate embryonic development, influencing cell behavior and tissue structure.

Keywords:
AdhesionBiophysicalDifferentiationEmbryoExtracellular matrixMigration

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Area of Science:

  • Developmental Biology
  • Biophysics
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a vital non-cellular component of tissues.
  • ECM provides physical support and signaling cues to cells.
  • Different ECM structures, like fibrillar networks and basement membranes, serve distinct roles.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent studies on the mechanical, biophysical, and signaling roles of ECM in embryonic development.
  • To explore how various ECM types influence tissue morphology.
  • To understand ECM's regulation of cell shape, adhesion, migration, and differentiation.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent research.
  • Analysis of studies across diverse developing organisms.
  • Focus on mechanical, biophysical, and signaling aspects of ECM.

Main Results:

  • ECM mechanical and biophysical properties significantly impact tissue development.
  • Specific ECM molecules and structures guide cell behaviors critical for morphogenesis.
  • ECM interactions are integral to regulating cell shape, adhesion, migration, and differentiation.

Conclusions:

  • The ECM plays a multifaceted role in embryonic development, extending beyond structural support.
  • Understanding ECM's cues is crucial for comprehending tissue morphogenesis and cell fate.
  • Future research should continue to elucidate the complex interplay between ECM and cellular processes during development.