extracellular matrix
(noun)
All the connective tissues and fibers that are not part of a cell, but rather provide support.
Examples of extracellular matrix in the following topics:
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Biofilms
- These cells are frequently embedded within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS).
- Biofilm EPS, also referred to as slime, is a polymeric conglomeration composed of extracellular DNA, proteins, and polysaccharides.
- Enzymes that degrade the biofilm extracellular matrix, such as dispersin B and deoxyribonuclease, may play a role in biofilm dispersal.
- Biofilm matrix-degrading enzymes may be useful as anti-biofilm agents.
- One benefit of this environment is increased resistance to detergents and antibiotics, as the dense extracellular matrix and the outer layer of cells protect the interior of the community.
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Biofilms, Persisters, and Antibiotic Tolerance
- They are characterized by structural heterogeneity, genetic diversity, complex community interactions, and an extracellular matrix of polymeric substances.
- They live on solid surfaces (e.g., catheters, ) and the extracellular material they produce protects them from external threats, such as attacks by the body's immune cells.
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Injuring the Plasma Membrane
- It serves as the attachment surface for several extracellular structures, including the cell wall, glycocalyx, and intracellular cytoskeleton.
- The plasma membrane also plays a role in anchoring the cytoskeleton to provide shape to the cell and in attaching to the extracellular matrix and other cells to help group cells together to form tissues .
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Pili and Pilus Assembly
- Other fimbriae bind to components of the extracellular matrix.
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Extracellular Immune Avoidance
- These adherent cells are frequently embedded within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS).
- Biofilm EPS, which is also referred to as slime, is a polymeric conglomeration generally composed of extracellular DNA, proteins, and polysaccharides.
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Biofilms and Infections
- These adherent cells are frequently embedded within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS).
- Dental plaque is a biofilm that adheres to teeth surfaces and consists of bacterial cells, salivary polymers, and bacterial extracellular products.
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Starvation-Induced Fruiting Bodies
- Individuals benefit from aggregation as it allows accumulation of extracellular enzymes which are used to digest food that increases feeding efficiency.
- This behavior facilitates predatory feeding, as the concentration of extracellular digestive enzymes secreted by the bacteria increases.
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The Deltaproteobacteria
- Individuals benefit from aggregation as it allows accumulation of extracellular enzymes which are used to digest food.
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Macrophages
- Where a pathogen is involved, they are commonly preceded by neutrophils, which release a range of toxic agents designed to kill extracellular pathogens.
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Alteration of Membrane Permeability
- The periplasm contains the peptidoglycan layer and also many proteins responsible for substrate binding or hydrolysis and the reception of extracellular signals.
- Na+) to travel through unrestricted and thereby destroy the ion gradient between the cytoplasm and the extracellular environment.