The article provides an overview of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the matrisome, a comprehensive inventory of ECM constituents and their functions. The ECM, composed of proteins and glycoproteins, plays a crucial role in cell adhesion, signaling, and tissue organization. The core matrisome in mammals includes approximately 300 proteins, including collagens, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins. These proteins are involved in various biological processes such as cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, and motility. The article discusses the evolution of ECM proteins, highlighting their ancient origins and recent developments, particularly in vertebrates. It also covers the structure and function of specific ECM components, such as collagens, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins, and their interactions with growth factors and receptors. The article emphasizes the importance of the ECM in development and disease, and the need for further research to understand its complex functions.The article provides an overview of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the matrisome, a comprehensive inventory of ECM constituents and their functions. The ECM, composed of proteins and glycoproteins, plays a crucial role in cell adhesion, signaling, and tissue organization. The core matrisome in mammals includes approximately 300 proteins, including collagens, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins. These proteins are involved in various biological processes such as cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, and motility. The article discusses the evolution of ECM proteins, highlighting their ancient origins and recent developments, particularly in vertebrates. It also covers the structure and function of specific ECM components, such as collagens, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins, and their interactions with growth factors and receptors. The article emphasizes the importance of the ECM in development and disease, and the need for further research to understand its complex functions.