Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What constitutes the extracellular matrix (ECM)?

1. Dead tissue and inflammatory cells

2. Fibroblasts and connective tissues

3. Newly formed connective tissue made by fibroblasts

4. Granulation tissue and scar tissue

The correct answer is: Newly formed connective tissue made by fibroblasts

The extracellular matrix (ECM) primarily consists of newly formed connective tissue produced by fibroblasts. This ECM provides structural support to the surrounding cells and plays a significant role in tissue repair, regeneration, and overall cellular function. Fibroblasts are crucial in synthesizing collagen, elastin, and other components of the ECM, contributing to the formation of granulation tissue during the healing process. When tissues are injured, fibroblasts migrate to the site of injury and proliferate, leading to the generation of this new connective tissue. This is a vital aspect of wound healing, as the ECM not only provides a scaffold for cell attachment and growth but also influences cellular behaviors through biochemical signals. The other choices include elements that do not accurately represent the ECM. Dead tissue and inflammatory cells are not components of the ECM; rather, they may be found in the wound environment during the inflammatory phase. Similarly, while granulation tissue and scar tissue are associated with the healing process, they encompass a broader scope than just the ECM, as they include cellular and vascular components that extend beyond the structural frameworks established by fibroblasts.