Connective Tissues
Most diverse & abundant tissue
Main Role
Strength against forcesProtect organsMaintain organ shapeProvide frame for muscle pull
2 ComponentsCells + matrix
Cells Matrix ~ ground substance
Fibers + “Protein Glue” + WaterNon-living
Origin of ConnectiveTissue
Just notice that the cells, thus tissue, thus system originates from the mesoderm, as you learned previously
Connective Tissue Cells
FibrocyteChondrocyteOsteocyteHematopoietic stem cell (in bone
marrow) red blood cell makers
Types of Fibers
Reticular keeps cells in place
Collagen resists stretch
Elastic allows stretch
Tissues Described By :
Amount of fibers : # of cells Arrangement of fibers in matrixType(s) of fiber in matrixAbility, function or location
Types
Connective properCartilageBlood Bone
Connective Tissue Proper (1/4)
Loose few fibers : more cells
Loose & AdiposeFiber type: almost noneFunction: Energy storage, protection
LocationUnder skin Around organs Behind eyeballsFastens kidneys
Loose & Reticular
Fibers: reticular Function: scaffold for cell migration
Location: lymph organs Lymph nodes bone marrow spleen
Loose & Areolar
Fiber Type: collagen, reticular, elasticFunction: retains water; connects
epithelium to …?
Location Under epitheliaAround organsSurround capillaries
Densemore fibers : few cells
Connective Tissue Proper (1/4)
Dense & Regular Description
Parallel directioncollagen & some elastic fibersHigh stretch strengthPoor vascular supply
Functionstress in one direction
LocationTendons & ligamentsBundle ends of muscles
Dense & Irregular Description
Multi directioncollagen & elastic fibers Resist stretch
Function Withstand tensionstructural strength
LocationDermis of skindigestive tractjoints and organs
Dense & Elastic Description
Elastic fibers, very little collagenHigh elasticity
Function Allow stretch
LocationAlveoli of lungsArteries
*Cartilage (1/4)
3 types Description
Avascular, no nervesMatrix up to 80% water
A. Hyaline (Glassy)
Description a few collagen fibers
FunctionResist repetitive stress Support & reinforcecushion
LocationEnd of long bonesCostal cartilage of ribsnose, trachea, & larynx
B. Elastic Description
More elastic fibersA Few collagen
Function Maintain shapeGreat flexibility
Locationexternal earEpiglottis
C. Fibrous Description
Thick collagen fibers
FunctionTensile strengthAbsorb compression
LocationIntervertebral discsPubis symphysisDisc of knee joint
*Blood Tissue (1/1)
DescriptionCells + fluid matrix + dissolved fibers
Functiontransport gases, nutrients, & waste
Locationblood vessels
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