noun
- a large molecule consisting of a protein core with attached carbohydrate chains, found in connective tissues and cell surfaces
Usage: biochemistry
Examples
- Proteoglycans help maintain the structure of cartilage in joints.
- The extracellular matrix contains various proteoglycans that provide support to cells.
- Researchers studied how proteoglycans contribute to tissue elasticity.
- Certain diseases affect the production of proteoglycans in connective tissue.
- Proteoglycans play important roles in cell signaling and tissue development.
- The breakdown of proteoglycans can lead to joint problems in arthritis.