connective tissue Flashcards
What is the most abundant and diverse type of tissue in the body?
connective tissue; sparse pop of cells scattered throughout extracellular matrix
What are the key functions of connective tissue?
Makes up the skeleton, delivers oxygen and nutrients, holds the body together
What is the common origin of all connective tissues?
Mesenchyme, a loose and fluid type of embryonic tissue
What is the extracellular matrix, and what is it made of?
Nonliving material that surrounds connective tissue cells; made of ground substance (watery/rubbery material that fills spaces between cells)
What are the four main classes of connective tissue?
Proper – Found in ligaments, skin, and fat.
Cartilage – Avascular, flexible support.
Bone – Supports and protects organs, enables movement.
Blood – Transports nutrients, hormones, and oxygen
What are the three types of connective tissue proper?
Loose connective tissue – Binds epithelium to tissue, holds organs in place.
Fibrous connective tissue – Dense with collagen fibers, found in tendons and ligaments.
Adipose tissue – Specialized loose connective tissue that stores fat.
What are the characteristics of cartilage?
Avascular, fibers embedded in a rubbery protein-carb complex
What makes bone unique among connective tissues?
It provides structure, binds and supports organs, and allows movement
What is the liquid form of connective tissue?
Blood, which transports oxygen, nutrients, and hormones throughout the body
