👉 The structure fluid, often referred to as the extracellular matrix (ECM), is a complex network of proteins and carbohydrates that surrounds and supports cells within tissues. It is composed primarily of collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins, which provide structural integrity, elasticity, and biochemical cues essential for cell function and communication. This matrix not only gives tissues their shape but also facilitates nutrient exchange, waste removal, and cell signaling, playing a crucial role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and enabling dynamic responses to physiological changes.