Matrix

In biology, the matrix is a divider made from two forms of extracellular material which separates connective tissue cells. The matrix is made from proteinaceous fibers and a ground substance which gives it its dense, gelatinous, yet adhesive properties.

All connective tissues possess a matrix, though some aspects of the matrix may be minimized depending on the tissue. For example, dense connective tissue has far less ground substance compared to areolar connective tissue. In many tissues, the matrix is secreted within a specialized cell, such as the fibroblasts of the areolar connective tissue.