Connective Tissue Quiz

Connective tissues are a type of tissue that provides support, structure, and metabolic exchange for other tissues and organs. It is derived from mesoderm and is found throughout the body.

Connective tissue plays a key role in providing structural support, helping tissues and organs maintain their shape. It also allows for movement and flexibility.

Connective tissue facilitates the exchange of essential nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the circulatory system and other tissues.

Connective tissue is characterized by cells, fibers, and an extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM provides structure and support, while the cells perform specific functions.

Collagen, elastin, and reticular fibers are the primary types of fibers found in connective tissue. Collagen provides strength and support, elastin allows for flexibility, and reticular fibers form a delicate framework.

A type of collagen found in thin, delicate fibers, abundant in reticular tissues like the spleen and lymph nodes.

Fibroblasts specialized in producing Type III collagen fibers.

A genetic disorder affecting collagen assembly, leading to hyperelasticity of skin, hypermobile joints, and potentially life-threatening weaknesses in blood vessels or intestines.

A protein that provides elasticity to tissues. Found in large amounts in ligaments, lung, skin, bladder, and blood vessel walls.

Cross-links in elastin molecules, contributing to its elasticity by enabling it to stretch and recoil.

Connective tissues are a diverse group of tissues that support, bind, and protect other tissues and organs. They are characterized by cells (fibroblasts and others), their origin from mesenchyme (embryonic tissue), varying vascularity (blood supply), and an extracellular matrix composed of ground substance and fibers.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex network of molecules that provides structural support, regulates cell behavior, and facilitates communication between cells. It consists of fibers (collagen, elastic, reticular) and ground substance.

Fibroblasts are the most common cells in connective tissue proper. They are responsible for synthesizing and secreting the components of the ECM, including collagen, elastin, and ground substance.

Ground substance is the gel-like, amorphous material that fills the spaces between cells and fibers in connective tissue. It is composed of interstitial fluid, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), proteoglycans, and multiadhesive glycoproteins.

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are long, unbranched polysaccharides that attract water and create a gel-like consistency within the ground substance. They are negatively charged, which allows them to bind water and regulate the flow of nutrients and waste.

Proteoglycans are large molecules composed of a core protein attached to multiple GAG side chains. They act like sponges, attracting water and regulating the viscosity of the ground substance. They also bind to cells and other ECM components.

Multiadhesive glycoproteins are small, glycosylated proteins that have multiple binding sites for cells, signaling molecules, and other ECM components. They play a crucial role in cell adhesion and signaling.

Collagen, elastic, and reticular fibers are the three main types of fibers found in the ECM. Collagen fibers provide tensile strength (resisting pulling forces), elastic fibers provide elasticity (ability to stretch and recoil), and reticular fibers provide a delicate network for support.

A thin, dense layer of extracellular matrix (ECM) that lies beneath epithelial cells. It is composed primarily of type IV collagen, laminin, and other ECM proteins. It acts as a barrier between epithelial tissues and the underlying connective tissue.

A specialized network of fine collagen fibers (type III*) that are embedded within the ECM. It is a less dense layer than the lamina densa, and it merges with the underlying connective tissue.

The basal lamina is comprised of two layers, what are they?

A specialized cell junction that strongly attaches epithelial cells to the underlying basal lamina.

The "basement membrane" is a combined structure. What two parts does it include?

Connective tissue is comprised of two main cell groups, what are they?

Cells that stay within the tissue and contribute to its structure and function. They are like the foundation of the tissue.

Cells that are transient and can migrate to the connective tissue in response to stimuli. They are like the visitors to the neighborhood.

A major protein in the human body, comprising up to 30% of its dry weight, responsible for providing strength and support to tissues.

Long, thin, specialized collagen fibers (type III) that form delicate networks supporting highly cellular organs like endocrine glands and the liver.

Thin, branched fibers or sheets made of elastin and glycoproteins, providing elasticity to tissues that stretch and recoil.

Type I collagen is the most abundant collagen type, providing tensile strength to tissues like skin, tendon, bone, and dentin, resisting stretching forces.

Collagen Type II is found in cartilage and the vitreous humor of the eye, providing resistance to pressure and supporting weight-bearing structures.

Type III collagen, also known as reticulin, forms a delicate network that provides structural framework for various organs and tissues, including skin, muscle, and blood vessels.

Collagen Type IV forms a sheet-like network that forms the structural basis for basement membranes, acting as a filtration barrier and supporting epithelial tissue.

Collagen types VI and IX are associated with other collagen types, helping to bind fibrils together and ensuring a strong, interconnected network within tissues.

Adipocytes are specialized cells primarily found in adipose tissue. They are highly active and play a crucial role in energy storage and metabolism.

Adipocytes store triglycerides, a type of fat, as their primary energy source. They also regulate glucose metabolism by responding to insulin and glucagon.

Adipocytes secrete various bioactive molecules, including leptin, which regulates appetite and satiety.

Adipocytes also secrete angiotensinogen, a precursor to a hormone involved in blood pressure regulation.

Brown adipose tissue is a type of fat found in newborns and hibernating animals. It contains mitochondria that express uncoupling protein, which generates heat rather than ATP.

Macrophages are immune cells that engulf and destroy harmful pathogens. They are formed from monocytes that enter connective tissue.

Plasma cells are mature B lymphocytes that continuously produce and release antibodies, which play a crucial role in the immune response.

Mast cells are connective tissue cells responsible for storing and releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Their degranulation is triggered by allergic reactions and inflammation.