Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

4. Tissues & Histology

Introduction to Connective Tissue

Anatomy & Physiology

4. Tissues & Histology

Introduction to Connective Tissue

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Problem 3d

Textbook Question

Describe the roles of the following components of the ECM:
Proteoglycans

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that the extracellular matrix (ECM) is a network of proteins and carbohydrates that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

Recognize that proteoglycans are a major component of the ECM, consisting of a core protein to which glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains are covalently attached. These GAG chains are long, unbranched polysaccharides with repeating disaccharide units.

Learn that proteoglycans contribute to the ECM's ability to resist compressive forces by attracting and retaining water due to the negative charges on their GAG chains. This creates a gel-like consistency in the ECM.

Understand that proteoglycans also play a role in cell signaling by binding to growth factors and cytokines, regulating their availability and activity in the cellular environment.

Recognize that proteoglycans help organize the ECM by interacting with other ECM components, such as collagen and elastin, to maintain tissue structure and integrity.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex network of proteins and carbohydrates that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells. It plays a crucial role in tissue and organ function, influencing cell behavior, migration, and differentiation. The ECM is composed of various components, including fibrous proteins, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans, each contributing to its overall function and integrity.

Proteoglycans

Proteoglycans are large molecules found in the ECM, consisting of a core protein with one or more glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains attached. They are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the ECM, providing hydration, and facilitating cell signaling. Proteoglycans help to regulate the movement of molecules through the ECM and play a significant role in cell adhesion and proliferation.

Cell Signaling

Cell signaling refers to the complex communication processes that govern cellular activities and coordinate responses to external stimuli. In the context of the ECM, proteoglycans can interact with growth factors and other signaling molecules, influencing cellular behavior such as growth, migration, and differentiation. This signaling is vital for tissue homeostasis and repair, highlighting the importance of proteoglycans in cellular communication.

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Textbook Question

John sustained a severe injury during football practice and is told that he has a torn knee cartilage. Can he expect a quick, uneventful recovery? Explain your response.

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