intercellular substance
The intercellular substance provides a supportive matrix for the surrounding cells.
Noun: The non-living material located between the cells of a tissue. It is a complex substance produced by the cells themselves and provides structural and biochemical support to the surrounding cells.
This is a scientific term used primarily in biology, histology, and medicine to describe the extracellular matrix that fills the spaces between cells in connective tissues.
- Noun:
- Cartilage strength comes from its dense intercellular substance.
- The pathologist examined the intercellular substance for signs of degradation.
- "Ground substance": A common synonym, specifically referring to the gel-like, amorphous component of the intercellular substance.
- The ground substance of the connective tissue allows for nutrient diffusion.
Extracellular matrix (ECM) (n): A more modern and comprehensive term encompassing the intercellular substance along with fibrous proteins like collagen.
- The extracellular matrix regulates cell behavior.
Matrix (n): In biological contexts, often used interchangeably with intercellular substance or extracellular matrix.
- The bone matrix is a calcified intercellular substance.
- Ground substance
- Extracellular matrix (broader term)
This term specifically refers to the non-cellular component. It is distinct from the cells themselves and is crucial for providing tissues with their mechanical properties and for facilitating cell communication.
The intercellular substance provides a supportive matrix for the surrounding cells.
- the body substance in which tissue cells are embedded