Discuss the importance of the ECM in tissues.

LILITHA MAJAVU , 2840287

I have been wondering how do cells get together, coordinate , structure to form me and you.
Well , this is because of a gel- like membrane called extracellular membrane found connected to
proteins embedded in the cell membrane of cells and to the components of the cytoskeleton. It is
composed of collagen, proteoglycans . lamina and fibronectin. These fibres are long and thin.
Therefore, the ECM is a key part of how cells come together to form me and you and other
tissues.

The ECM play an important role in group of cells that have similar structures and that function
together as a unit called tissues. It connects the tissues together and provide structural support . It
allow tissue cells to connect together. It has an ability to strength, and influences the turgidity
and rigidity of several important tissues and organs . Example , it play a role in skin, blood
vessel, tendons and lungs. The cells of tissues interact with their environment through the ECM.
Furthermore, the tissue repair after an injury depends on the synthesis of ECM in order to replace
lost or damaged tissue ( Clark,1996). In vertebrates , the ECM determines the physical properties
of tissues, as well as many characteristics of cells within them( Paul Bornstein, 2002). The ECM
helps to regulate the behavior of cells during tissue repair , such as by controlling differentiation
and survival (Allah Rakha Yaseen , 2024). In the developing of the embryo , the ECM participate
in morphogenesis of these tissues.

It can provide stability to tissues in the process formation. In addition, the ECM create spaces
and control growth in cell tissues. There is now information showing that ECM provides an
environment through which cells migrate , provides a substratum for their adhesion and guidance
( Jonathan B.L Bard) . Therefore, the ECM is an important part of tissues and play a key role in
maintaining their structures.

REFERENCE LIST

(Clark, 1996)
(Jonathan B.L Bard)
(Lodish) MOLECULAE CELL BIOLOGY TEXTBOOK