IHP Exam 2 Flashcards

Study Notes

Connective Tissue Overview

Composed of cells, extracellular matrix (ECM), and ground substance.
Plays a crucial role in structural support, nutrient exchange, defense, and repair.

Types of Cells in Connective Tissue

Fibroblasts: Produce ECM components.
Lymphocytes: Part of the immune response.
Plasma Cells: Produce antibodies.
Macrophages: Engulf pathogens and debris.
Mast Cells: Involved in inflammatory responses.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

Consists of protein fibers including:
- Elastic fibers: Provides elasticity.
- Collagen fibers: Offers strength and structure.
- Reticular fibers: Form a delicate network.
Contains specialized molecules for various functions.

Functions of Connective Tissue

Structural Support: Found in bones, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
Nutrient & Waste Exchange: Facilitates metabolic activities through ECM.
Defense: Houses immune cells; provides physical barrier via ECM.
Healing and Repair: Aids recovery from injuries.

Classification of Connective Tissue

Connective Tissue Proper:
- Loose: Filler tissue, more cellular with less collagen; found under epithelia and in organs.
- Dense:
  - Irregular: Provides structural strength; found in mammary glands.
  - Regular: Organized parallel fibers; involved in tendons and ligaments.
Specialized Connective Tissue:
- Reticular: Forms supportive networks.
- Adipose: Stores energy.
- Hematopoietic: Produces blood cells.
Embryonic Connective Tissue:
- Mesenchyme: Precursor to other connective tissues.
Supporting Connective Tissue:
- Cartilage and Bone: Provide rigidity and support.

Connective Tissue Proper

Loose Connective Tissue:
- Highly cellular, with gel-like ground substance.
- Loosely arranged fibers; found in tubular organs.
Dense Irregular Connective Tissue:
- Contains few fibroblasts and irregularly arranged collagen fibers.
- Provides strength and resistance to distension.
Dense Regular Connective Tissue:
- Features parallel collagen fibers organized into fascicles.
- Provides high tensile strength in one direction.

Elastic Fibers

Found in the dermis and mesentery, showing unique structural configurations.
Enable tissues to stretch and return to shape; composed mainly of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells.
High flexibility, significantly outmatching collagen in elasticity.

Collagen Fibers

Most abundant in the body; primarily produced by fibroblasts.
Types include:
- Type I: Found in skin, bones, and dentin.
- Type II: Present in cartilage.
- Type III: Found in reticular fibers of organs.
Only certain types (I, II, III, and X) can form fibrils.

Reticular Fibers

Comprised of type III collagen; thinner and do not form bundles.
Create supportive networks in different organs including the spleen and lymph nodes.

Ground Substance

Amorphous, viscous gel supporting cells and fibers.
Main components include glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are linear polysaccharides that help bind fibers.
Notable GalG examples include:
- Dermatan sulfate: Present in dermis, ligaments.
- Chondroitin sulfate: Found in cartilage.
- Heparan sulfate: Associated with basal lamina.

Description

Test your knowledge on connective tissue with this set of flashcards. Each card covers essential concepts such as cells, extracellular matrix, and the various functions of connective tissue. Perfect for students preparing for exams in anatomy and physiology.