Answer to Question #209272 in General Chemistry for Jon

Question

Proteoglycan aggregates in tissues form hydrated, viscous gels. Can you think of any obvious mechanical reason why their capacity to form gels is important to cell function? (Hint: Liquid water is virtually incompressible).

Answer 1

Formation of gels by proteoglycans is important because :

1. It helps in maintaining elasticity of the tissues

2. It helps in resisting deformation due to stress