7.1 The Extracellular Space скачать в хорошем качестве

7.1 The Extracellular Space

The extracellular space around cells includes the glycocalyx, a sugar-rich layer on the plasma membrane that mediates cell-cell interactions, provides protection, and regulates access to the membrane. Beyond this, many cells are surrounded by an extracellular matrix (ECM), a network of proteins like collagen, proteoglycans, fibronectin, and laminin that offers structural support, regulates cellular behavior, and plays roles in development and tissue repair. Collagen provides tensile strength, proteoglycans form hydrated gels for compression resistance, fibronectin connects ECM components and guides cell migration, while laminins influence cell differentiation and migration, particularly during embryonic development.