connective tissue and extracellular matrix

Question 1

what does integrin do?

Answer 1

mediate cellular adhesion to other cells or extracellular matrix

transmembrane protein that links intermediate fillaments (keratin) and microfillaments (actin) from the cytoskelletin with extracellular fibronectin (which connects integrin to collagen)

also binds laminin

Question 2

what determines the stiffness of the extracellular matrix?

Answer 2

hyaluronic acid - glycosaminoglycan that contributes to degree of water retention

Question 3

pt has bullae skin leasions on the trunk and extremities that rupture easily and give rise to painful erosions with flaccid bullae that extend laterally into surrounding skin with applied pressure. what is the disease?

Answer 3

pemphigus vulgaris

Question 4

where are the antibodies in pemphigus vulgaris?

Answer 4

directed toward desmogliens 1 and 2 (comonents of desmosomes)

FOUND IN BETWEEN KERATINOCYTES NOT ALONG BASEMENT MEMBRANE

Question 5

where are the antibodies found in bollus pemphigoid?

Answer 5

along basement membrane

antibodies are directed against hemidesmosomes

Question 6

pt is found to have granular deposition of IgA in the upper papillary dermis. What is the disease? What is an associated condition?

Answer 6

dermatitis herpetiformis

ciliacs