Final answer:
Proteoglycans in the extracellular matrix provide flexibility to cells and tissues, contributing to their resilience and ability to communicate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that provides flexibility to cells and tissues is proteoglycans. Proteoglycans are large, carbohydrate-containing protein molecules that are interwoven with collagen fibers. Collagen provides tensile strength to the connective tissue, while the proteoglycans, with their viscous and compressible properties, contribute to the flexibility and resilience of the ECM. This combination allows tissues to withstand physical stresses and enables cells within the tissue to communicate with each other, which is crucial for the maintaining the integrity and function of tissues.