Title: Week 3 - Unit 1_5: The Extracellular Matrix (ECM)
Course: Biochemistry

Introduction

The relationship between the cell and its environment is controlled by specialized macromolecules complexes that bind cells together to form tissues and organs. The plasma membrane of mammalian cells has specialized junctional complexes that allow cells to bind to neighboring cells or to the extracellular matrix, which provides a structural framework for the association of cells.

Expectations

In multi-cellular organisms, cells are organized into tissues. In this unit, we will discuss about the extracellular matrix, a network of macromolecules secreted by cells; that support tissues such as bone or wood their strength. The matrix provides one way to bind cells together.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this unit, you will be able to

- Describe extracellular matrix