What Is Extracellular Cell Mass?

The cells, tissues and processes that make up the human body work together to maintain the health of the system. Included within this system is a supportive structure called extracellular mass. This structure is specifically designed to support and help regulate the numerous processes that take place in the body.

Identification

Extracellular mass, also known as the extracellular matrix, are non-living materials made up of the plasma, collagen, tendons, fluid and bones that surround the cells in the body. These features provide a structure in which cells and tissues can live and function, and enable processes like growth, scarring and healing. Extracellular mass appears in three forms throughout the body: link proteins, space filling molecules, and fibrous materials. Each form may take on varying textures and compositions depending on the area of the body occupied.

Function

The materials used to manufacture extracellular mass are typically secreted by the cells in the surrounding area. The types of cells which make up a particular area such as bone cells, or skin cells, are usually best equipped to provide the materials needed for their support and structure. In some areas, this matrix of materials assists with regulating intercellular communication, as well as serves as a separator between different types of tissue. Some areas are equipped with specialized growth factors, or steroids designed to stimulate cellular growth when damage or injury has occurred.

Fibrous Connective Tissue

Fibrous connective tissue is a form of extracellular mass that enables movement and supports surrounding tissue structures. There are four categories of fibrous tissue within the body: loose connective tissue, dense connective tissue, cartilage, and bone-blood-lymphatic tissues. Loose connective tissue includes the epithelium, which helps support the skin; adipose or fat tissue, which cushions and insulates surrounding tissues; and reticular tissue which supports the lymphatic system organs. Dense connective tissue is made out of collagen fibers. Tendons and ligaments fall within this category. Cartilage tissue is what cushions the joints throughout the body. It can be found at the ends of bones, between the ribs and sternum, and throughout the spinal region. Bone, blood and lymphatic tissues function as connective systems that transport nutrients and hormones throughout the body.

Link Proteins

Link proteins or peptides are a form of extracellular mass found in the body's fluids. These materials are located in plasma, spinal fluid and in the fluids found outside of cells. Peptides play a part in the chemical reactions that take place between cells, as well as in their signaling processes. They also help to regulate the balance of water that's present both inside and outside the surrounding cells. Plasma proteins in particular play an essential role in fluid movement through artery and capillary vessels.

Integrins

Integrins are a form of extracellular mass that work to coordinate cellular processes with its surrounding environment. Integrins are glycoprotein receptors that reside alongside cell membranes, providing a means for communication between similar cells, and between extracellular fluid processes. The information passed from cell-to-matrix and matrix-to-cell also assists with cell signaling activities, and cell metabolism processes. These communication processes enable cells and tissues that have been damaged or injured to communicate their status to the surrounding extracellular components.

References

• The Extracellular Matrix of Animals

Resources

• Connective Tissue