ILOs:

• Describe the nature and function of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, including proteoglycans and fibrous proteins
• Briefly describe how ECM is synthesised and degraded
• Identify the location and nature of ECM components in different tissues
• Briefly describe the composition of osteoid and cartilage (ECM in bones and joints)
• Give examples of medical conditions associated with defects in ECM components

• What is it?
• Two main types of ECM
• What does it contain?
• Where is it?
• Function of ECM
• Interstitial connective tissue
• ECM composition
• ECM arrangement in connective tissue
• ECM production
• ECM remodelling
• Consequences in deregulated ECM remodelling
• Basement membrane
• Bone