Supporting Connective Tissue Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Which of the following is true about supporting connective tissue?

It includes cartilage and bone. (correct)

It does not provide any framework.

Its matrix contains only water.

It has no fibers.

What is the matrix of cartilage primarily made of?

Firm gel with complete polysaccharides.

What are chondrocytes?

Cartilage cells that live in lacunae.

Hyaline cartilage is the weakest type of cartilage.

True Signup and view all the answers

Name one example of hyaline cartilage.

Connections between the ribs and sternum. Signup and view all the answers

What feature makes elastic cartilage unique?

Contains numerous elastic fibers. Signup and view all the answers

Where can elastic cartilage be found?

In the external flap of the ear. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes fibrocartilage?

Predominantly collagen fibers. Signup and view all the answers

Name one example of fibrocartilage.

Pads between the spinal vertebrae. Signup and view all the answers

What is bone primarily made of?

Collagen fibers and calcium salts. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Supporting Connective Tissue

Comprised of cartilage and bone, providing a strong structural framework for the body.
The matrix contains various fibers and may include deposits of insoluble calcium salts.

Cartilage

Matrix consists of a firm gel with polysaccharides, notably chondroitin sulfates which form complexes with proteins (proteoglycans).
Chondrocytes, the sole cell type found in the cartilage matrix, reside in small chambers called lacunae.
Physical properties of cartilage are influenced by the matrix composition, contributing to tensile strength and flexibility.
Chondrocytes produce elements that inhibit blood vessel formation, leading to slow healing (avascular).

Hyaline Cartilage

Most prevalent cartilage type, with closely packed collagen fibers in its matrix.
Tough yet somewhat flexible, it is the weakest form of cartilage.

Examples of Hyaline Cartilage

Connects ribs to the sternum.
Provides support in the respiratory tract.
Covers bone surfaces in synovial joints, such as the elbow and knee.

Elastic Cartilage

Contains abundant elastic fibers, giving it remarkable resilience and flexibility.

Examples of Elastic Cartilage

Forms the external flap of the ear.
Comprises the epiglottis and auditory tube (middle ear pathway).
Found within small laryngeal cartilages.

Fibrocartilage

Contains minimal ground substance, with a matrix rich in densely interwoven collagen fibers.
Known for its durability, fibrocartilage resists compression, absorbs shock, and prevents bone-to-bone contact.

Examples of Fibrocartilage

Located in intervertebral discs between spinal vertebrae.
Presents between the pubic bones of the pelvis.
Found around and within specific joints and tendons.

Bone

Also referred to as osseous tissue, it is a composite of collagen fibers and calcium salts.
Comprised of spongy bone and compact bone, encased in a perisoteum sheath.

Description

Explore key concepts related to supporting connective tissues including cartilage and bone through this set of flashcards. Each card provides definitions and characteristics to enhance your understanding of these vital structural components of the body.