The proteoglycan aggregate (the "toilet brush"), which is an integral component of the ground substance, is composed of:
hyaluronic acid + proteoglycan monomers
reticular fibers + collagen fibers
chondroblasts and chondroclasts
collagen fibers + fibroblasts
The Correct Answer is A
A. hyaluronic acid + proteoglycan monomers: Hyaluronic acid forms the central stalk (handle of the "toilet brush"), and proteoglycan monomers attach along its length, forming a large aggregate that traps water and gives ground substance its gel-like consistency.
B. reticular fibers + collagen fibers: These are structural protein fibers in connective tissue but are not components of proteoglycan aggregates.
C. chondroblasts and chondroclasts: These are cartilage cells involved in formation (chondroblasts) and resorption (chondroclasts) but not part of the ground substance's molecular structure.
D. collagen fibers + fibroblasts: Collagen fibers are structural; fibroblasts produce extracellular matrix components, but neither directly forms the proteoglycan aggregate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. ground substance
This is a major component of the ECM, consisting of water, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins that fill the space between fibers and cells.
B. cytoplasmic inclusions
These are structures found inside the cell (e.g., glycogen granules, lipid droplets), not in the extracellular matrix.
C. fluid
Interstitial fluid (extracellular fluid) is part of the ECM and facilitates nutrient and waste exchange.
D. protein fibers
Collagen, elastic, and reticular fibers are key components of the ECM that provide strength, flexibility, and support.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. an inability to lay down new bone
Bone formation is the role of osteoblasts, not osteoclasts.
B. an inability to lay down cartilage
Cartilage is formed by chondroblasts, unrelated to osteoclasts.
C. an inability to regulate calcium
Osteoclasts resorb bone, releasing calcium into the bloodstream. Defective osteoclasts impair this process, disrupting calcium homeostasis.
D. an inability to create matrix
Osteoclasts break down bone matrix, they don’t create it. Matrix creation is done by osteoblasts.
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