Ground substance

Definition

Ground substance is the unstructured material that fills the space between the cells and fibers in connective tissue. It primarily consists of water, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins that facilitate nutrient and waste exchange.

Related terms

Connective Tissue: A type of biological tissue with high levels of extracellular matrix that supports, binds together, and protects organs.

Fibroblasts: A type of cell found within connective tissue that produces collagen and other fibers.

Extracellular Matrix: A complex network of proteins and carbohydrates outside cells, providing structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells