Connective Tissue Flashcards
Fibroblasts
Produce collagens, proteoglycans and glycoproteins
Mesenchymal cells
Connective tissue stem cells
Scurvy
Due to vitamin C deficiency; co-factor in cross-linking collagen fibers, weakens CT
Proteoglycan examples
Chondroitin sulfates
Heparin sulfates
Keratin sulfates
Glycoprotein examples
Cytokines
Growth factors
Fibronectin/laminins
Extracellular matrix of CT contains
Proteoglycans
Hyaluronan
Glycoproteins
Extracellular proenzymes
CD44 function
Bind hyaluronan
Embryonic connective tissue
Rich in ECM and mesenchymal stem cells
Some but not as many collagen or reticular fibers
In umbilical cord- referred to as whartons jelly
Areolar loose CT
Low density tissue with both fixed and wandering cells; widespread
Functions to support and bind other tissues, hold body fluids, defend against infection
Found immediately beneath membranous epithelia (where it is referred to as lamina propria), also found around BVs, muscles and nerves
Dense irregular CT
Fibers are deposited in random pattern
- dermis of the skin
- perichondrium/periosteum
- fascia
- capsules that surround internal organs
Dense regular CT
Fibers are deposited in a highly regular pattern
-tendons connecting skeletal muscle to bone
-poorly vascularized
-wavy appearance
-Mostly fibroblasts
Found in tendons, ligaments, aponeuroses, joint capsules
Reticular CT found where
Found in liver, bone marrow, lymph nodes and spleen
Houses blood cells and immune cells
Marfans syndrome
Autosomal dominant disorder where elastin is weak
Principle targets- ocular, skeletal, CV system
Life threatening CV abnormalities
Patients tend to be tall with long arms/legs
