EXTRACELLULAR SPACE Meaning and
Definition
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The extracellular space is a scientific term used in the field of biology to refer to the region outside of a cell but within a tissue or organism. It is the space that is found between the cells of tissues and organs, constituting a complex and dynamic environment. This fluid-filled space plays a crucial role in the exchange of substances and communication between cells.
The extracellular space is primarily composed of a fluid called extracellular fluid or interstitial fluid, which contains water, ions, nutrients, gases, and molecules that are necessary for cellular functions. This fluid is involved in various physiological processes like providing a medium for the transport of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between cells and blood vessels.
The extracellular space also contains a network of proteins, fibers, and macromolecules collectively known as the extracellular matrix. This structural framework provides support and integrity to tissues and organs, helping maintain their shape and function. The extracellular matrix also serves as a signaling platform, regulating cellular behavior, migration, and tissue development.
The extracellular space is a dynamic environment that undergoes constant changes. It is influenced by factors such as inflammation, infection, and disease, which can alter the composition and properties of the extracellular fluid and extracellular matrix. Understanding the extracellular space is essential for comprehending cell to cell communication, tissue development, and the pathogenesis of various diseases.
Common Misspellings for EXTRACELLULAR SPACE
- wxtracellular space
- sxtracellular space
- dxtracellular space
- rxtracellular space
- 4xtracellular space
- 3xtracellular space
- eztracellular space
- ectracellular space
- edtracellular space
- estracellular space
- exrracellular space
- exfracellular space
- exgracellular space
- exyracellular space
- ex6racellular space
- ex5racellular space
- exteacellular space
- extdacellular space
- extfacellular space
- exttacellular space
Etymology of EXTRACELLULAR SPACE
The word extracellular is derived from two Latin roots: extra meaning outside or beyond, and cellula meaning little cell. The term was first coined by German zoologist Karl Paul Link in 1926 to describe the space that lies outside the cells in biological tissues.
The term space comes from the Old French word espace and the Latin word spatium meaning room or area. In the context of biology, extracellular space refers to the fluid-filled area that surrounds and separates cells within a tissue or organ.
Therefore, the etymology of the word extracellular space can be understood as the combination of Latin and Old French roots meaning outside the little cell room/area.
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