Textbook Question
Describe the roles of the following components of the ECM:
Collagen fibers
833
views
Ch. 4 Histology
Amerman2nd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136873822
Not the one you use?Change textbookSelect a different textbook
Table of contents
- Ch. 1 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology26
- Ch. 2 The Chemistry of Life38
- Ch. 3 The Cell55
- Ch. 4 Histology47
- Ch. 5 The Integumentary System30
- Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Tissue36
- Ch. 7 The Skeletal System40
- Ch. 8 Articulations19
- Ch. 9 The Muscular System36
- Ch. 10 Muscle Tissue and Physiology29
- Ch. 11 Introduction to the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue28
- Ch. 12 The Central Nervous System42
- Ch. 13 The Peripheral Nervous System41
- Ch. 14 The Autonomic Nervous System and Homeostasis31
- Ch. 15 The Special Senses39
- Ch. 16 The Endocrine System42
- Ch. 17 The Cardiovascular System I: The Heart30
- Ch. 18 The Cardiovascular System II: The Blood Vessels43
- Ch. 19 Blood32
- Ch. 20 The Lymphatic System and Immunity45
- Ch. 21 The Respiratory System27
- Ch. 22 The Digestive System27
- Ch. 23 Metabolism and Nutrition7
- Ch. 24 The Urinary System39
- Ch. 25 Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Homeostasis39
- Ch. 26 The Reproductive System10
- Ch. 27 Development and Heredity5
Chapter 4, Problem L3.A2
In the disease scleroderma, excessive collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and glycoproteins are produced and deposited in tissues throughout the body. Predict the effects of this disease.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and glycoproteins in normal tissue function. Collagen provides structural support, glycosaminoglycans contribute to hydration and elasticity, and glycoproteins are involved in cell signaling and adhesion.
Recognize that excessive production and deposition of these substances can lead to abnormal tissue remodeling. This may result in thickening and hardening of tissues, a hallmark of scleroderma.
Consider the impact on organ systems. For example, excessive collagen in the skin can cause tightness and reduced flexibility, while deposition in the lungs or heart can impair their function.
Analyze how these changes affect physiological processes. For instance, reduced elasticity in blood vessels due to collagen deposition can lead to hypertension and impaired circulation.
Predict systemic effects based on the widespread nature of the disease. This may include reduced mobility, difficulty breathing, and complications in organ systems such as the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Scleroderma
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease characterized by the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. It results from an overproduction of collagen and other extracellular matrix components, leading to fibrosis. This condition can affect various organs, causing symptoms that range from skin changes to serious complications in the lungs, heart, and digestive system.
Collagen
Collagen is a primary structural protein found in connective tissues, providing strength and support to skin, bones, and organs. In scleroderma, excessive collagen production leads to tissue stiffness and loss of elasticity, which can impair organ function and mobility. Understanding collagen's role is crucial for predicting the physical manifestations of the disease.
Recommended video:
Guided course
2:54
Gross Anatomy of Bone: Periosteum and Endosteum Example 1
Fibrosis
Fibrosis is the formation of excess fibrous connective tissue in an organ or tissue, often as a reparative response to injury or inflammation. In scleroderma, fibrosis occurs due to the accumulation of collagen and other matrix components, resulting in scarring and dysfunction of affected organs. This process can lead to significant health issues, including reduced lung capacity and impaired circulation.
Recommended video:
05:21Autosomal Disorders
Related Practice
Textbook Question
Explain why it would be difficult for a mature multinucleate cell such as a skeletal muscle fiber to divide by mitosis.
785
views
Textbook Question
Imagine that a disease turns the simple epithelia of the lungs, kidney tubules, and intestines into keratinized stratified squamous epithelia. What effect would this change in form have on the functions of these tissues?
719
views
Textbook Question
Describe the roles of the following components of the ECM:
Glycosaminoglycans
727
views
Textbook Question
Epithelial cells of the kidneys have pumps that drive the transcellular transport of sodium ions.
Is this epithelium likely to be simple or stratified? Why?
581
views
Textbook Question
Predict which organelles are likely to be abundant in cells such as fibroblasts that actively produce and secrete proteins.
755
views