Glycosaminoglycans connective tissue extracellular matrix

Proteoglycans Glycosaminoglycans (mucopolysaccharides) bound to protein chains in covalent complexes. Proteoglycans are present in the extracellular matrix of connective tissue. 

Connective tissue, which consists primarily of fibroblasts, produces extracellular matrix materials that surround cells and tissues, determining their appropriate position within the organ (see Chapter 49). These materials include structural proteins (collagen and elastin), adhesive proteins (fibronectin), and glycosaminoglycans (heparan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate). The unique structures of the proteins and carbohydrates found within the extracellular matrix allow tissues and organs to carry out their many functions. A loss of these supportive and barrier functions of connective tissue sometimes leads to significant clinical consequences, such as those that result from the microvascular alterations that lead to blindness or renal failure, or peripheral neuropathies in patients with diabetes mellitus. 

The matrix formed in the presence of carbohydrates may be compared with the extracellular matrix of connective tissues. However, the plaque polysaccharides are not glycosaminoglycans but glucans and other high molecular weight homo- and hetero-polysaccharides which are interspersed with the protein component. Examination of the extracellular polysaccharides... 

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