Organisation In Human Function Flashcards
What is a cell?
Basic unit of life/living matter
Building block with which the body is constructed
What is a tissue?
Collection of similar/specialised cells working/grouped together to perform specialised functions
What is an organ?
A structural grouping of specialised tissues that perform a specific function(s)
What is an organ system?
A group of specialised organs working together to carry out a particular task
What are glial cells?
Supporting cells within the nervous tissue
Essential for normal function of nerve cells (neurones)
Important in memory formation and central role in brain injury/disease
What are the 4 main types of tissues?
Epithelial
Connective
Muscle
Nervous
What is collagen?
Protein whose structure provides strength and flexibility
E.g. parallel bundles of collagen fibres in a tendon
What is elastin?
Protein with a different structure allowing for distortion and restoration of a structured original shape
E.g. walls of blood vessels contain elastin fibres to allow for expansion and recoiling as blood passes through
What is the function of fibroblasts?
Secrete extracellular fibres, mostly made of non-stretchy collagen and very elastic elastin
What’s the function of mast cells?
Secrete histamine in inflammatory reactions and heparin which prevents blood clotting
What is the function of macrophages?
Engulf or phagocytose pathogens, ageing cells, damaged cells and cancer cells
What is the function of muscle tissue?
Specialised tissue that has the ability to contract and conduct electrical impulses
What is epithelial tissue?
One of the simplest tissues
Demonstrates how individual cells can build up into tissues of varying complexity
Why is tissue typing carried out?
Provide evidence of tissue compatibility d the recipient receives a donated organ or tissue with a tissue type similar to their own
What is human leukocyte antigen (HLA)?
Identifies antigens on the WBC determining tissue compatibility
What is the function of connective tissue?
Ensures tissues and organs are supported and held in position in the body, binding, supporting and protecting other body tissues
Role in controlling movement of substances as they pass from blood to cells
Movement and migration of cells during embryological development and wound healing
What is connective tissue?
Strong and consists of a matrix (variety of cells and fibres may be embedded)
What is in the matrix of connective tissue?
May be a liquid, solid or gel
Composition determines characteristics and function of particular connective tissues
Fibre within it comprise primarily of collagen and elastin
What is nervous tissue?
Consists of nerve cells and associated supporting tissues
Made up of specialised nerve cells- neurones
What is the function of neurones?
Specialised to react to stimuli and conduct impulses to various organs in the body, bringing about a response to stimuli
Easily stimulated, transmitting impulses rapidly
Provide physical support, electrical insulation and metabolic exchange with vascular system
