WANI Dictionary

Extracellular matrix, ECM

Extracellular matrix (ECM) is material that fills the spaces between cells in tissue. The major components of ECM include proteoglycans and collagens secreted from fibroblast, a type of cells in the ECM.

Fibroblasts have the ability to differentiate into other cell types such as adipocytes and osteoblasts. Despite their abundance and importanct, fibroblasts have been poorly characterized since they lack specific defining markers [4].

Definitions in the literature

• Complex mixture of cell secretions, the composition and function of which vary by cell type [1].
• The viscous watery fluid that surrounds cells in animal tissues. Secreted by the cells themselves, it is the medium through which they receive materials (e.g. nutrients, hormones). [2].
• ... material secreted by and filling the spaces between cells. Animal cells secrete supporting and adhesive proteins embedded in a gel of polysaccharides linked by proteins; plant cells secrete a matrix of cellulose that forms cells walls [3].