Connective Tissue Flashcards
What are the functions of connective tissue?
- Protection
- Storage
- Repair
- Transport
- Supports organs
Where is connective tissue derived from?
The mesoderm
What are the two main types of connective tissue?
Collagen and elastic
What 3 components make up connective tissue?
Fibres, cells and matrix
What is the appearance of collagen?
- White
- Thick
- Generally unbranched
What is the appearance of elastic tissue?
- Yellow
- Thin
- Branched
What cell produces collagen fibres? How do they do this?
Fibroblasts
pro-collagen —> tropocollagen —> collagen
What is an example of a dense and regular collagen connective tissue?
Tendons
What is an example of a dense and irregular collagen connective tissue?
Dermis (skin)
What is the structure of collagen?
- 3 chains of alpha helices coiled around each other
- Rich in glycine and proline
Which amino acids is collagen rich in?
Glycine and proline
What is required for the formation of collagen?
Vitamin C
How many genes are typically involved in the formation of collagen?
34
What type of collagen is the major component of bone, tendons and skin? What is the arrangement of these fibres like?
Type I
Long, branched fibres
What type of collagen is the major component of basement membranes? What is the arrangement of these fibres like?
Type IV
Sheet-like fibres