Extracellular matrix

From Freepedia

In biology, extracellular matrix (ECM) is any material part of a tissue that is not part of any cell. Extracellular matrix is the defining feature of connective tissue.

ECM's main component is various glycoproteins. In most animals, the most abundant glycoprotein in the ECM is collagen. ECM also contains many other components: proteins such as fibrin and elastin, minerals such as hydroxylapatite, or fluids such as blood plasma or serum with secreted free flowing antigens. Given this diversity, it can serve any number of functions. Such as providing support and anchorage for the cells. The ECM functions in a cell's dynamic behavior. The integrins transmit mechanical stimuli from the ECM to the cytoskeleton.

Many cells bind to components of the extracellular matrix. This cell-to-ECM adhesion is due to specific cell surface adhesion proteins known as cellular adhesion molecules (CAM).