ekstracelulare

Extracellular refers to anything located or occurring outside of a cell. This term is commonly used in biology and medicine to describe various components, substances, and processes. For instance, the extracellular matrix is a network of molecules that provides structural support to cells in tissues and organs. It consists of proteins like collagen and elastin, as well as carbohydrates.

Extracellular fluid (ECF) is the fluid found outside of cells in multicellular organisms. It bathes the cells and facilitates the transport of nutrients, waste products, and signaling molecules. The ECF is divided into interstitial fluid, which fills the spaces between cells, and plasma, the fluid component of blood.

In the context of signaling, extracellular signals are molecules that are released by one cell and detected by another, initiating a response. These signals can be hormones, neurotransmitters, or growth factors. Many diseases and conditions involve disruptions in extracellular processes, such as the breakdown of the extracellular matrix in arthritis or abnormal signaling pathways. Understanding extracellular components and their functions is crucial for comprehending cellular behavior, tissue development, and the mechanisms of disease.