Module 1: Basic tissue types: Connective tissue

Question 1

connective tissue

Answer 1

basic tissues that provides structural and metabolic support for tissues and organs throughout the body
carries blood vessels and mediates exchange of materials between tissues and circulatory system

Question 2

what is connective tissue composed of

Answer 2

extracellular matrix (fibers produced by specialized support cells and ground substance [glycoproteins, fibronectin, glycosaminoglycans])

Question 3

what is the primary glycosaminoglycans

Answer 3

hyaluronic acid
able to hold large volume of tissue fluids within its meshwork
forms medium for transport of materials between tissues and circulatory system
stains clear

Question 4

specialized support cells

Answer 4

fibroblasts - secrete extracellular matrix
chondrocytes - secrete extracellular matrix of cartilage
osteocytes - secrete extracellular matrix of bone
myofibroblasts - contractile and secretory function
adipocytes - fat storage and cushioning
mast cells/ macrophages - convey immunity

Question 5

Classification is based on

Answer 5

the fibre types that predominates
collagenous
elastic

Question 6

collagenous

Answer 6

type I: makes up 90% of collagen in tissue; found in dermis of skin, tendons, ligaments, bone; described as dense or loose based on density

type III: formerly reticulin fibers; collagen fibrils aggregate to form collagen fibers. Results in very fine branching fibrils that provide support for highly cellular tissue (ex. liver)

Question 7

Elastic

Answer 7

fibers composed of amorphous protein, elastin, a glycoprotein and microfibrils
found in walls of arteries
may also form sheets of elastic laminae
Also found in skin and urinary bladder

Question 8

Adipose tissue

Answer 8

Fat cells; adipocytes
found in most connective tissue
function as energy reserve and cushioning, insulation
White: main type in adults
brown: main types in newborns and small amount in adults