HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What does the extracellular matrix mainly assist with?

1. Protecting against infections

2. Transporting oxygen through blood

3. Regulating transport of water, nutrients, and electrolytes

4. Pumping waste out of cells

The correct answer is: Regulating transport of water, nutrients, and electrolytes

The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a critical role in regulating the transport of water, nutrients, and electrolytes between cells and their environment. It is a complex network of proteins and carbohydrates that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells. By forming a scaffold, the ECM facilitates the exchange of substances essential for cellular functions, such as nutrient uptake and waste removal. The ECM acts as a selective barrier, which influences the movement of molecules, ensuring that cells receive necessary nutrients while also controlling the removal of waste products. This transport regulation is vital for maintaining homeostasis within tissues. In contrast to the other options, the ECM is not directly involved in protecting against infections or transporting oxygen in blood, as these functions are predominantly carried out by other systems like the immune system and the circulatory system, respectively. Additionally, while cells do expel waste, the actual pumping mechanism is primarily the role of cellular processes like exocytosis rather than a function of the ECM.