6.4 Tissues Flashcards
What is the definition of ‘tissue’?
A collection of differentiated cells that have a specialised function/functions in an organism
What are the 4 main types of tissues? How is each one adapted?
- Nervous tissue - Supports transmission of electrical impulses
- Epithelial tissue - Adapted to cover body surfaces, internal and external
- Muscle tissue - Adapted to contract
- Connective tissue - Adapted to either hold tissues together or act a transport medium
What is the squamous epithelium made up of? What is the squamous epithelium also known as? Why is it called this?
Squamous epithelial cells
Sometimes known as ‘pavement epithelium’ due to its flat appearance
Explain the characteristics of the squamous epithelium?
Very thin - Due to flat cells that make it up + bc it’s one cell thick
When is the squamous epithelium used?
When rapid diffusion across a surface is necessary
Where can squamous epithelium be found? Why is this an adaptation?
Forms the lining of lungs - allows rapid diffusion of oxygen into the blood
What is the ciliated epithelium made up of?
Ciliated epithelial cells
What are cilia?
Hair-like structures on one surface of ciliated epithelial cells that move in a rhythmic manner
Where can the ciliated epithelium be found? Why is this an adaptation?
On the lining of the trachea - causes mucus to be moved away from the lungs
Where are goblet cells found?
Inside ciliated epithelium
What is the function of goblet cells? Why is this a benefit?
Release mucus to trap any unwanted particles present in the air.
The benefit of this is that any particles e.g. bacteria are prevented from reaching the alveoli inside lungs
What type of tissue is cartilage?
Connective tissue
Where is cartilage found?
Outer ear, nose and at the end of and between bones
What does cartilage contain?
Fibres of the proteins elastin and collagen
Describe the structure of cartilage?
Cartilage is a firm, flexible connective tissue composed of chondrocyte cells embedded in an extracellular matrix
