10 Questions
What is the primary function of elastin fibres in connective tissue?
To enable elasticity and relaxation in tissues
What type of connective tissue is characterized by a viscous consistency and allows for the diffusion of oxygen and nutrients?
Clean connective tissue
Which type of cell is found in cartilaginous tissue?
Chondrocytes
What is the main difference between irregular dense connective tissue and regular dense connective tissue?
The arrangement of collagen fibres
What is the function of reticulin fibres in connective tissue?
To support the walls of vessels and form the framework of soft organs
What is the characteristic of the matrix in cartilaginous tissue?
It is hard and solid
Which type of connective tissue is characterized by a predominance of fibres and great resistance?
Dense connective tissue
What is the function of the fundamental substance in connective tissue?
To enable cell adhesion and cohesion
Which type of connective tissue is found in the dermis, blood vessels, and surrounding the small intestine?
Clean connective tissue
What is the characteristic of the fibroblasts in dense connective tissue?
They are rare and inactive
Study Notes
Connective Tissue
- Combination of cells and extracellular matrix (ECM)
- ECM: fibres, water, and soluble molecules
- Functions: supports and unites cells, allows diffusion of O2 and nutrients
Cells of Connective Tissue
- Fixed cells: fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, pericytes, adipocytes, macrophages
- Mobile cells: derived from haematopoietic stem cells, migrate to connective tissue, short lifespan
Fibroblasts
- Present in all types of connective tissue
- Spindle-shaped, elongated cell with numerous extensions
- Synthesise most of the ECM components
- Exist in two forms: fibroblasts (active) and fibrocytes (resting, inactive)
Myofibroblasts
- Morphology intermediate between muscle cells and fibroblasts
- Presence of actin filaments and myosin (contractile function)
- Important role in healing process and tissue repair
Pericytes
- Surround blood capillaries and venules
Adipocytes
- Specialised in lipid storage and hormone production
- Derived from adipoblasts
Classification of Connective Tissue
- Loose connective tissue: balanced, dense
- Mineralized connective tissue: cartilage, bone
- Specialised connective tissue: adipose, blood
Loose Connective Tissue
- Cells, fibres, and matrix in the same proportion
- Matrix has viscous consistency, allows diffusion of O2 and nutrients
- Provides elasticity and support, located under covering epithelium, associated with glands and surrounds blood vessels
Dense Connective Tissue
- Fibres predominate, providing great resistance
- Fibroblasts rare, fundamental substance not very abundant
- Two types: irregular dense tissue, regular dense tissue
Understand the structure and functions of connective tissue, including the types of cells present and their roles in the human body.
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