Question

Which characteristic is not one that is true of glycosaminoglycans?

a.They contain disaccharide repeat units.
b.They are heteropolysaccharides.
c.They always contain sulfates.
d.They are found in the extracellular matrix.

Answer 1

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are indeed found in the extracellular matrix as part of proteoglycans, and they contribute to its structural integrity and cell communication functions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Characteristic Not True of Glycosaminoglycans

The statement that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are not found in the extracellular matrix is incorrect. GAGs, often linked to proteins forming proteoglycans, are indeed a significant component of the extracellular matrix in animal cells. These molecules are implicated in various functions, such as providing structural support, holding cells together to form tissues, permitting cell-to-cell communication, and resisting compression.

The extracellular matrix is composed of a network of proteins, primarily collagen, and carbohydrates, among which the proteoglycans are prevalent. Glycosaminoglycans form hydrated gels within the proteoglycans that occupy large spaces within the matrix, contributing to its physical properties and functionalities. Therefore, glycosaminoglycans' presence in the extracellular matrix is essential for the matrix's structural and communicative roles in tissue organization.