Macromolecules of the extracellular compartment of embryonic and mature hearts.

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Abstract
The present knowledge of the cardiac extracellular matrix is reviewed. The microscopic appearance of the extracellular space, the chemical composition of the extracellular matrix and the 3 general types of macromolecules characteristic of extracellular matrices (collagen, glycosaminoglycan and glycoprotein) are discussed. Quantitative and qualitative differences among macromolecules resulting from differences in matrix source (human, cattle or chicken) and age are presented. Changes in matrix composition during embryonic development and maturation are included.