Connective Tissue Flashcards
fibroblasts (definition, function)
make the protein subunits of fibers, secrete the molecules that form the ground substance
adipose cells (adipocytes) (def, function)
fat cells
stores nutrients, energy, water, insulation, protection
macrophages
engulf foreign particulate matter; important in immune responses and scar formation
mast cells
contain granules of heparin and histamine
play a critical role in many allergic reactions
found near blood vessels
heparin
found in mast cells
prevents blood from clotting
histamine
found in mast cells
vasodilator, constricts bronchial smooth muscle
collagen fibers
strongest and most abundant fiber resist tension give strength to tissue cross linked parallel to lines of force tendons, ligaments
elastic fibers
present in abundance in some ligaments and elastic cartilage
as we age elastic fibers lose their elasticity
contain protein elastin
reticular fibers
mesh like network
covers and supports
smilar to collagen fibers
loose connective (areolar) tissue (composition, function, location)
contains all cells and fiber types in a general ground substance
supports and binds to other tissues, holds body fluids, defends the body against infection, stores nutrients as fat
fascia (surrounds muscles), around nerves, blood vessels
dense regular connective tissue composition, location
primarily of collagen fibers (parallel), fibroblasts, hardly any ground substance
tendons, ligaments
elastic connective tissue
many elastic fibers
walls of arteries, some ligaments, bronchial tubes in lungs
adipose connective tissue
main component: adipose cells and not much else
stores lots of nutrients
provides protection and support for kidneys
hyaline cartilage
extensive
embryonic skeleton
covers synovial joints
ribs
fibrocartilage
collagen fibers + little ground substance
intervertebral discs
