A&P Tissue Flashcards: Vascular vs Avascular

Study Notes

Tissue Types Overview

Four main types of tissue: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous.

Epithelial Tissue Characteristics

Avascular, with no blood vessels; relies on diffusion for nutrient supply.
Composed of closely packed cells; provides protective barriers and secretory functions.
Capable of rapid reproduction.

Epithelial Tissue Shapes

Squamous: Thin, flattened cells.
Cuboidal: Cube-like cells.
Columnar: Elongated cells.
Transitional: Layered cells that can stretch; notably seen in urinary bladder.

Epithelial Layer Types

Simple: Single layer of cells; allows for efficient absorption and secretion.
Stratified: Multiple layers; provides added protection.
Pseudostratified: Appears stratified but all cells contact the basement membrane; found in trachea.

Glandular Epithelia

Exocrine glands: Secrete substances into ducts for external or internal destination.
Endocrine glands: Secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.
Types include merocrine, apocrine, holocrine, serous, and mucous glands, each with unique secretion mechanisms.

Connective Tissue Characteristics

Vascularity varies by type; well-vascularized tissues have a good blood supply, while avascular ones do not.
Cells are spaced apart with a matrix in between them; supports and binds other tissues.
Functions include support, fat storage, protection, produce blood cells, and immune responses.

Connective Tissue Cells

-Blasts: Active, immature cells (e.g., fibroblasts, chondroblasts).
-Cytes: Mature cells involved in maintenance (e.g., adipocytes, osteocytes).
Mast cells: Release histamine; important in inflammatory response.
Macrophages: Engulf debris and pathogens, key in immune defense.
Plasma cells: B lymphocytes that produce antibodies.

Blood Components

Leukocytes: White blood cells involved in immunity.
Erythrocytes: Red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport.

Carcinomas

Cancers that originate from epithelial tissues; account for about 90% of cancer cases.

Specific Tissue Types

Loose Connective Tissue: Vascular and provides flexibility and support.
Dense Regular Connective Tissue: Avascular, found in tendons and ligaments.
Dense Irregular Connective Tissue: Avascular, provides structural support in various directions.
Adipose Tissue: Vascular connective tissue that stores fat.
Blood: Specialized connective tissue with both erythrocytes and leukocytes.

Description

Test your knowledge of epithelial and connective tissues with these flashcards. Explore the differences between vascular and avascular tissue types while reviewing the four fundamental types of tissue. Ideal for students studying Anatomy and Physiology.