collagen-containing extracellular matrix

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

An extracellular matrix consisting mainly of proteins (especially collagen) and glycosaminoglycans (mostly as proteoglycans) that provides not only essential physical scaffolding for the cellular constituents but can also initiate crucial biochemical and biomechanical cues required for tissue morphogenesis, differentiation and homeostasis. The components are secreted by cells in the vicinity and form a sheet underlying or overlying cells such as endothelial and epithelial cells. [GOC:BHF, GOC:rph, PMID:21123617]

The collagen-containing extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex and dynamic structure that provides structural support, regulates cell behavior, and contributes to tissue homeostasis. It is composed of a diverse array of macromolecules, including collagens, proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and enzymes.

**Collagens** are the most abundant proteins in the ECM and form a fibrous network that provides tensile strength and resistance to stretching. They are typically organized into fibrils, which are assembled from multiple collagen molecules that interact via specific amino acid sequences. The specific types of collagen present in the ECM vary depending on the tissue type. For example, type I collagen is abundant in skin, bone, and tendons, while type II collagen is found in cartilage.

**Proteoglycans** are large, complex molecules composed of a core protein to which multiple glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are attached. GAGs are long, unbranched polysaccharide chains that can bind water, giving the ECM its hydrated gel-like consistency. Proteoglycans play important roles in regulating the diffusion of molecules through the ECM, providing a binding site for growth factors and other signaling molecules, and influencing cell migration and adhesion.

**Glycoproteins** are proteins to which sugar molecules are attached. They contribute to the structural integrity of the ECM and mediate cell-ECM interactions. Examples of ECM glycoproteins include laminin, fibronectin, and tenascin.

**Enzymes** are proteins that catalyze specific biochemical reactions. They are involved in the synthesis, degradation, and remodeling of the ECM. For example, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of enzymes that degrade ECM proteins, playing important roles in wound healing, tissue development, and tumor invasion.

**Cellular Component**

The collagen-containing ECM is a complex network of macromolecules that interacts with cells via specialized cell surface receptors, known as integrins. Integrins bind to specific ECM proteins, such as collagen and laminin, linking the ECM to the cytoskeleton of the cell. This connection provides a physical link between the ECM and the cell, allowing the cell to sense and respond to changes in its surroundings.

**Functions of the Cellular Component of the ECM:**

* **Structural support:** The ECM provides structural support for tissues and organs, giving them shape and resistance to mechanical forces.
* **Cell adhesion and migration:** The ECM provides binding sites for cells, allowing them to adhere to tissues and migrate through them.
* **Tissue development and repair:** The ECM plays a crucial role in tissue development and repair, providing a scaffolding for cells to organize and differentiate.
* **Regulation of cell behavior:** The ECM can influence cell behavior, including growth, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
* **Signal transduction:** The ECM can act as a signaling platform, providing a means for cells to communicate with each other and respond to changes in their environment.

**In summary, the cellular component of the collagen-containing ECM is a dynamic and integrated network of macromolecules that plays a crucial role in maintaining tissue structure and function, regulating cell behavior, and mediating cell-ECM interactions.**'
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Proteins (73)

Compounds (808)