Connective tissue Flashcards
What are the embryological derivations of connective tissue?
- Mesoderm
2. Ectoderm (neural crest)
Which CT cell possesses the cellular machinery for the synthesis and secretion of fibers and ground substance?
Fibroblast (active)
Do active fibroblasts typically divide?
No
Under which circumstances would an active fibroblast divide?
Wound healing (fibroplasia)
Which is another term for a quiescent fibroblast?
Fibrocyte
What is another term for a fibrocyte?
Quiescent fibroblast
What are some characteristics of a fibrocyte compared to a fibroblast?
- Smaller
- Spindle-shaped
- Fewer processes
- Eosinophilic cytoplasm
- Elongated and heterochromatic nucleus
- Nucleoli not visible
What is a myofibroblast?
Cell that possesses characteristics of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cell
Where are myofibroblasts commonly found?
Sites of wound healing
What is a Dupuytren’s contracture?
Ischemic damage to palmar aponeurosis, fibroblasts and myofibroblasts replace Type I collagen with Type III. Contracture at MP joints due to excess deposition of Type III collagen crosslinking with myofibroblasts
Which digits are most commonly affected in a Dupuytren’s conracture?
4th and 5th digits
Unilocular adipocytes are associated with what type of adipose tissue?
White adipose tissue
Which type of adipocyte has a signet ring appearance?
Unilocular adipocytes
What hormone is secreted by adipocytes to decrease appetite?
Leptin
What is the function of leptin?
Appetite suppression