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 Muscle Tissue

Anatomy & Physiology

4. Tissues & Histology

Introduction to Muscle Tissue

Previous problemNext problem

1:30 minutes

Problem 13

Textbook Question

Matrix is extracellular. How does the matrix get to its characteristic position?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that the extracellular matrix (ECM) is a network of proteins and polysaccharides secreted by cells into the extracellular space. It provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

Recognize that cells synthesize ECM components such as collagen, elastin, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans within the cell, specifically in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). These components are then modified in the Golgi apparatus.

Learn that ECM components are transported to the cell membrane via vesicles. These vesicles fuse with the plasma membrane, releasing the ECM components into the extracellular space through exocytosis.

Understand that once secreted, ECM components self-assemble or are organized by enzymes and other proteins into their characteristic structure. For example, collagen fibers are cross-linked to form a strong, supportive network.

Recognize that the position and organization of the ECM are influenced by interactions with cell surface receptors, such as integrins, which anchor the ECM to the cell and help maintain its characteristic position and function.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Video duration:

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

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. Understanding the composition and functions of the ECM is essential for grasping how it maintains its position and interacts with cells.

Cell Adhesion Molecules (CAMs)

Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are proteins located on the cell surface that facilitate cell-to-cell and cell-to-ECM interactions. They are vital for the positioning of the ECM, as they help anchor the matrix to cells and guide its organization. The dynamics of CAMs are crucial for understanding how the ECM achieves its characteristic positioning within tissues.

Tissue Morphogenesis

Tissue morphogenesis refers to the biological processes that lead to the organized structure and shape of tissues during development. This involves the coordination of cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation, as well as the deposition and remodeling of the ECM. Analyzing morphogenetic processes is key to understanding how the ECM reaches its characteristic position in relation to cells.