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The function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in animals is
- a. to provide strength.
- b. to provide structural support.
- c. to organize cells and other body parts.
- d. cell signaling.
- e. all of the above.
Introduction: Animal cells secrete an extracellular matrix (ECM) that provides support and helps in the organization of cells. ECM is composed of the major macromolecules, such as proteins and polysaccharides.
Answer to Problem 1TY
Correct answer: The function of the extracellular matrix in animals is to provide structural support, strength, organize cells and other body parts, and cell signaling. Hence, the correct answer is option e.
Explanation of Solution
Reason for correct answer:
The four functions of extracellular matrix (ECM) in animals are structural support, strength, cell signaling, and cellular organization.
ECM present in the skin of mammals prevents tearing. It provides protection to the joints and internal organs. The bones and cartilage of many animals are composed of ECM. Skeleton provide structural support as well as facilitate movement. ECM attached to the cells play an important role in the proper organization of cells. Cells in multicellular organisms sense their environment through ECM.
Option e. is given as “all of the above”
The four functions of extracellular matrix (ECM) in animals are structural support, strength, cell signaling and cellular organization. Hence, the correct answer is option e.
Reasons for incorrect answer:
Option a. is given as, “to provide strength”.
ECM present in the mammals provides protection to the joints and internal organs. Moreover, it also provides structural support, and plays an important role in proper arrangement of cells and cell signaling. Hence, option a. is incorrect.
Option b. is given as, “to provide structural support”.
The bones and cartilage of many animals are composed of ECM. Skeleton provide the structural support as well as it facilitates movement. Moreover, it also provides strength and plays an important role in the proper arrangement of cells and cell signaling. Hence, option b. is incorrect.
Option c. is given as, “to organize cells and other body parts”.
ECM attached to the cells play an important role in the proper organization of cells. Moreover, it also provides strength and structural support, and plays an important role in cell signaling. Hence, option c. is incorrect.
Option d. is given as, “cell signaling”.
Cells in multicellular organisms sense their environment through ECM. Moreover, it also provides strength and structural support and plays an important role in the proper arrangement of cells. Hence, option d. is incorrect.
Hence, the options a., b., c., and d. are incorrect.
Thus, the function of the extracellular matrix in animals is to provide structural support and strength. It also plays an important role in proper arrangement of cells and in cell signaling.
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