Connective Tissue Biology

Study Notes

Connective tissue is a type of tissue that provides support, structure, and connectivity to the body
It is characterized by the presence of a matrix, which is a non-living substance that surrounds the cells

Provides structural support and framework for the body
Connects and binds organs and tissues together
Provides cushioning and shock absorption
Acts as a medium for the exchange of nutrients and waste products
Plays a role in the immune system by providing a barrier against infection and disease

Loose Connective Tissue
- Found throughout the body, particularly in areas that require flexibility and elasticity
- Composed of a loose network of fibers and cells
- Functions: provides support and cushioning, allows for movement and flexibility
Dense Connective Tissue
- Found in areas that require strength and rigidity
- Composed of a dense network of fibers and cells
- Functions: provides strength and support, anchors muscles and bones
Cartilaginous Connective Tissue
- Found in areas that require flexibility and support, but not weight-bearing
- Composed of chondrocytes and a matrix of collagen and proteoglycans
- Functions: provides support and cushioning, reduces friction between bones
Bony Connective Tissue
- Found in bones, provides structural support and protection
- Composed of osteocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts, and a matrix of collagen and hydroxyapatite
- Functions: provides structural support, protects internal organs, and facilitates movement
Adipose Connective Tissue
- Found throughout the body, particularly in areas that require energy storage
- Composed of adipocytes and a matrix of collagen and reticular fibers
- Functions: provides energy storage, insulation, and cushioning
Blood Connective Tissue
- Found in the circulatory system, responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients
- Composed of blood cells, platelets, and plasma
- Functions: transports oxygen and nutrients, regulates body temperature, and maintains pH balance

Cells
- Fibroblasts: produce collagen and other proteins
- Adipocytes: store energy in the form of fat
- Chondrocytes: produce cartilage matrix
- Osteocytes: maintain bone tissue
Matrix
- Composed of collagen, elastin, proteoglycans, and other proteins
- Provides structure and support to the tissue
- Allows for movement and flexibility

Provides support, structure, and connectivity to the body
Characterized by the presence of a matrix, a non-living substance surrounding cells

Provides structural support and framework for the body
Connects and binds organs and tissues together
Provides cushioning and shock absorption
Acts as a medium for exchange of nutrients and waste products
Plays a role in the immune system by providing a barrier against infection and disease

Found throughout the body, particularly in areas requiring flexibility and elasticity
Composed of a loose network of fibers and cells
Functions: provides support and cushioning, allows for movement and flexibility

Found in bones, provides structural support and protection
Composed of osteocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts, and a matrix of collagen and hydroxyapatite
Functions: provides structural support, protects internal organs, and facilitates movement

Found in the circulatory system, responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients
Composed of blood cells, platelets, and plasma
Functions: transports oxygen and nutrients, regulates body temperature, and maintains pH balance