Extracellular matrix
Chapter: 2
Most kinds of cells must grow adherent to a substratum, i.e., they must have a scaffolding to which to attach. The extracellular matrix is that scaffolding. The extracellular matrix also modulates the functions of cells. For example, some inducible genes that are important in the inflammatory response cannot be expressed unless leukocytes are adherent to a matrix component. There are five major components: collagens, basement membranes, structural glycoproteins, elastic fibers, and proteoglycans. The extracellular matrix is susceptible to digestion by the lysosomal enzymes produced by leukocytes during exocytosis.
See Also: