Tissues Flashcards
What is the definition for tissues?
An aggregation of specialised cells carrying out a specific function
What are the four primary tissue types in the human body?
Epithelial tissue
Muscle tissue
Connective tissue
Nerve tissue
What are epithelial tissues?
Form a continuous layer
Covering or lining the internal and external surfaces of the body
What are the four types of epithelial tissues?
Squamous epithelium
Cuboidal epithelium
Columnar epithelium
Ciliated columnar epithelium
Describe the squamous epithelium
Flattened cells
Found lining body cavities
E.g. mouth & alveoli
Describe the cuboidal epithelium
Cube-shaped cells
Found lining the kidney tubules and ducts of glands
Describe the columnar epithelium
Elongated column-shaped cells
Found lining the stomach and intestines
Describe the ciliated columnar epithelium
Column-shaped cells that have fine hair-like projections (cilia) on the surface
E.g. in the trachea & oviduct
What is the purpose of connective tissues?
Connects and anchors structures
Gives strength and support to the body and its organs
How does collagen support connective tissues?
Collagen proteins form extracellular fibres that give strength to dense connective tissues
Such as the tendons and ligaments
Collagen is also found in the tough outer layer of large blood vessels
What is the purpose of muscle tissues?
Nerve impulses bring about muscle contraction
Causes muscles to shorten
As contraction of the muscle ends, normal muscle length is once again attained