1.0 Extracellular Matrix

Question 1

Cells + ECM = ?

Answer 1

tissues

Question 2

What is Basal Lamina?

Answer 2

specific type of ECM created between connective tissue & epithelia

Question 3

What can ECM influence in a cell? (4)

Answer 3

• Cell shape
• Cell migration/ cell behaviour
• Cell proliferation
• Determine patterns of development

Question 4

What do cells influence in the ECM? (2)

Answer 4

Cells determine ECM produced
Cells control ECM turnover

Question 5

What are the two types of ECM Component?

Answer 5

1. Glycosaminoglycans- polysaccharides covalently linked to a protein
2. Fibrous Proteins

Question 6

Give an example of a Fibrous protein & briefly describe its structure?

Answer 6

Collagen- a triple helix formed from alpha chain polypeptides that are all covalently cross linked

Question 7

Why does Collagen have many different types e.g. Fibrillar?

Answer 7

Distinct & specific alpha chain combinations may produce many collagens

Question 8

What are the three types of Collagen?

Answer 8

1. Fibrillar
2. Networking
3. Fibril Associated

Question 9

What do proteoglycans provide in the matrix and how?

Answer 9

Provides a hydrated space & a gel-like sieve
How? Protein core with glycosaminoglycan side chains, these chains provide the hydrated space

Question 10

Where is Hyaluronan found and how does its molecular weight affect its function?

Answer 10

Found in glycosaminoglycan chains in the ECM
- Low molecular weight- high proliferation
- High molecular weight in low proliferation

Question 11

What is the role of Hyaluronan in the ECM?

Answer 11

Regulates tissue responses to injury, repair, and regeneration

Question 12

What is the difference between Glycosaminoglycans and Atypical Glycosaminoglycans?

Answer 12

Unsulphated (both still have repeats of disaccharides)

Question 13

What is the role of Atypical Glycosaminoglycans in the ECM? (3)

Answer 13

• Space filler
  
  • Facilitates cell shape changes
  • Acts as a lubricant