Connective Tissue (Proper)

Question 1

What components make up connective tissue?

Answer 1

Cells- fibroblasts, adipocytes, reticular cells. Fibres- collagens, elastin and reticular fibres. Ground substance- proteoglycans.

Question 2

What are the two types of dense CT?

Answer 2

Irregular- fibres running in different directions. Regular- fibres running parallel to each other.

Question 3

Describe structure of loose CT.

Answer 3

Contains multiple cell types- fibroblast, macrophages. Two main fibres- collagenous and elastic. Ground substance- proteoglycans

Question 4

Functions of loose CT.

Answer 4

Holds vessel that supply fluids, permits cell migration, involved in inflammation pathways.

Question 5

Functions of fibroblasts.

Answer 5

Synthesise and secrete the fibres that lie within the ground substance.

Question 6

Functions of unilocular/mutlilocular cells.

Answer 6

Uni- padding and shock absorber, insulation and energy reserve. Multi- provides insulation and energy reserve.

Question 7

Compare brown to white adipose tissue.

Answer 7

Multiple lipid droplets, increased mitochondria number, single central nucleus.

Question 8

What are the fibres in CT?

Answer 8

Collagen- flexible, high tensile strength. Reticulin- provide a supporting framework. Elastin- allows tissues to recoil after stretch or distension.