GMAE 3

is a 3D network of extracellular macromolec ules, such as collagen, enzymes, and glycoproteins, that
provide structural and biochemical support of
surrounding cells.

ECM
• consist of different combinations of ____(such as collagens and elastic fibers) and ___

• is a complex of anionic, hydrophilic proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and multiadhesiveglycoproteins (laminin, fibronectin, and others).
• provides the medium for the exchange of nutrients and metabolic wastes between cells and the blood supply.

cover the external surfaces of the body, line the internal cavities

form various organs and glands, and line their ducts

Epithelium is ____, that is, it does not have blood vessels.

The shapes and dimensions of
epithelial cells are quite variable,
ranging from

The connective tissue that underlies the epithelia lining the organs of the digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems is called

All epithelial cells in contact with subjacent connective tissue has a

electron-dense layer consisting of a
network of fine fibrils

more diffuse and fibrous layer

These are large glycoproteins that self-assemble as a lacelike network immediately below the cells’
basal poles where they are held in place by the transmembrane integrins.

contain three polypeptide chains and selfassemble further to form a feltlike layer.