Final answer:
The gelatinous material found between cells that absorbs compressive forces is called the extracellular matrix, consisting of glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and adhesive glycoproteins. These components provide structural support and allow for cellular communication.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gelatinous material found in between cells that protects by absorbing compressive forces is called the extracellular matrix (ECM). It consists of three macromolecules: glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), proteoglycans, and adhesive glycoproteins.
The GAGs are polysaccharide chains that are often covalently linked to proteins to form proteoglycans. These proteoglycans occupy large amounts of space, form hydrated gels, and resist compression. They provide structural support and help absorb mechanical forces.
The adhesive glycoproteins, such as fibronectin, play a role in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, helping to hold cells together and promoting cellular communication within the tissue.