Structure Flashcards
What is the primary function of connective tissues?
- support the body
- bind or connect all types of tissues
What does connective tissue provide?
A mechanical framework (the skeleton) which plays an important role in locomotion
What is connective tissue characterised by?
By the large amounts of intercellular substance that it contains
What else can intercellular substance be called?
- ground substance
- matrix
Describe the cell layout of connective tissues
Relatively few cells which are widely separated from each other
What are the living cells in connective tissue responsible for?
Secreting large amounts of intercellular ground substance (matrix)
What is the matrix?
The matrix is a non-living material which may be liquid (blood), semisolid (connective tissue), or solid (bone)
What is found embedded in the matrix?
A variety of connecting and supporting fibres;
- collagen fibres
- elastic fibres
How are connective tissues classified?
According to the predominant fibre type present in each
