Connective Tissue

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Connective Tissue

Connective tissue (/kəˈnɛktɪv ˈtɪʃuː/) is one of the four basic types of animal tissue, along with epithelial tissue, muscle tissue, and nervous tissue. It develops from the mesoderm.

Etymology

The term "connective tissue" is derived from the Latin words 'conectere' which means 'to bind together' and 'tissue' which comes from the French word 'tissu' meaning 'a weave'.

Definition

Connective tissue is a complex structural tissue that supports, binds together, and protects the various parts of the body. It includes various types such as loose connective tissue, dense connective tissue, cartilage, bone, adipose tissue, and blood.

Function

Connective tissue has a wide variety of functions that depend on the types of its cells and the characteristics of its matrix. The primary functions of connective tissue include providing support and protection, serving as a framework, and filling spaces.

Types

There are several types of connective tissue, including:

  • Loose connective tissue: This is the most common type of connective tissue. It holds organs in place and attaches epithelial tissue to other underlying tissues.
  • Dense connective tissue: This type of tissue is composed of large amounts of closely packed collagen fibers. It forms the tendons, ligaments, and the white fibrous tissues that provide support and protection for the parts where it is located.
  • Cartilage: This is a flexible connective tissue found in many areas of the body. It can bend a bit, but resists stretching.
  • Bone: This is a rigid connective tissue that constitutes the skeleton. Its matrix is very dense and contains deposits of calcium salts.
  • Adipose tissue: This is a specialized type of connective tissue that stores fat.
  • Blood: This is considered a connective tissue because it has a matrix. The blood cells are surrounded by a non-living fluid matrix called plasma.

Related Terms

External links

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