Cells of Connective Tissue Quiz

Study Notes

Plasma Cells
- Transient cells derived from B-lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell)
- Predominantly located in lymph nodes
- Vital for immunity as they produce and release specific antibodies into blood and tissues
Adipocytes
- Fixed cells also referred to as fat cells
- Develop from fibroblast-like cells
- Distributed singly or in clusters within various connective tissues, especially adipose tissue
- Primary function is lipid storage
Macrophages
- Fixed, large, irregularly shaped immune cells known as histiocytes
- Originates from white blood cells called monocytes
- Play a crucial role in the immune response by phagocytosing (engulfing) pathogens and foreign bodies
Mast Cells
- Fixed cells derived from myeloid stem cells
- Found in loose connective tissues, including the liver, spleen, and around blood vessels
- Contain granules of heparin (anticoagulant) and histamine (involved in allergic reactions)
- Histamine contributes to bronchoconstriction and vasodilation, while heparin facilitates blood flow to sites of inflammation
Fibroblasts
- Fixed large cells with irregular processes
- Derived from primitive mesenchyme, a type of embryonic tissue
- Present in nearly all body tissues
- Functions include producing a non-rigid extracellular matrix and secreting collagen and fibers (collagen, elastin, fibronectin)
- Actively involved in wound healing and the formation of granulation tissue after tissue injury