GENERAL HISTOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Fibroblasts produce the ECM’s structural proteins (e.g., fibrous collagen and elastin), adhesive proteins (e.g., laminin and fibronectin), and ground substance (e.g., glycosaminoglycans, such as hyaluronan and glycoproteins).

Detailed explanation-2: -matrix (ECM). Fibroblasts are the principal resident cells of connective tissue, responsible for its synthesis and maintenance. ECM is tissue-specific and composed of protein fibers (collagen, reticular, and elastic) and ground substance (amorphous gel-like substance).

Detailed explanation-3: -Fibroblasts are developmentally programmed to produce collagen matrix, which is the main structural component of connective tissue. Fibroblasts have cell surface receptors, called integrins, which specifically attach to proteins in the matrix including type I collagen.

Detailed explanation-4: -Connective Tissue Fibers and Ground Substance Three main types of fibers are secreted by fibroblasts: collagen fibers, elastic fibers, and reticular fibers.