Microanatomy basics Flashcards
What defines a tissue?
A collection of cells specialised to perform a particular function. The cells may be of the same type or of different types
What defines an organ?
A part of the body, composed of more than 1 tissue, that forms a structural unit respondible for a particular function
What defines an organ system?
Made up from 2 or more organs, to fulfil functions eg the digestive system
What are the 4 basic tissues?
- Epithelial tissue
- Connective tissue
- Muscle tissue
- Nervous tissue
What is the function of epithelial tissue?
It is sheets of cells that cover exterior surfaces of the body, lines internal cavities and passageways and forms certain glands
Epithelial tissue is avascular and regenerative
What is the function of connective tissue?
It binds cells and the organs of the body together and functions in the protection, support and integration of all parts of the body
What is the function of muscle tissue?
It is excitable, responding to stimulation and contracting to provide movement
What are the 3 major types of muscle tissues?
- Skeletal (voluntary) muscle
- Smooth muscle
- Cardiac muscle
What is the function of the nervous tissue?
It is excitable, allowing the propagation of electrochemical signals in the form of nerve impulses that communicate between different regions of the body
What are simple squamous epithelium adapted for?
The exchange of small molecules between separated compartments
What are simple columnar epithelium adapted for?
To perform secretory or absorptive functions
How would you describe simple squamous epithelium?
Thin, flattened cells
How would you describe simple cuboidal epithelium?
A singular layer of cuboidal cells whose width is approximately equal to their height
How would you describe simple columnar epithelium?
The height of the cells is much greater than their width
How would you described ciliated epithelium?
Consists of cells of differing shapes and heights. The apical surface is ciliated