Chapter 4- The Tissue Level of Organization

Basement Membrane

In addition to providing strength and resisting distrotion, the basement membrane also provides a barrier that restricts the movement of proteins and other large molecules from the underlying connective tissue into the epithelium.

Blood

a connective tissue that contains distinctive collections of cells in a fluid matrix.

Bone

Hard calcium compounds and flexible collagen fibers.

Cartilage

a firm gel containing embedded fibers.

Connective Tissue

the most diverse tissue of the body. Bone, blood, and fat are familiar connective tissues that have very different functions and properties.

Epitheleal Tissue

Includes epithelia which are layers of cells that cover internal or external surfaces and glands which are composed of secreting cells derived from epithelia.

Fibroblasts

a cell in connective tissue that produces collagen and other fibers.

Gap Junction

a direct channel between the cytoplasm of two adjacent cells. 

Gland Cells

a specialized cell in an animal or plant that produces and secretes a partifular substance

Histology

the study of tissues

Inflammation

a normal part of the body;s response to injury or infection.

Lymph

a colorless fluid that contains white blood cells that bathe the tissues and drain them through the lymphatic system into the bloodstream.

Macrophages

white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune system

Matrix

the non-cellular ground substance that fills the spaces between cells in tissues.

Mucous Membrane

the moist, inner lining of some organs and body cavities.

Muscle Tissue

a soft tissue that contracts to produce movement.

Neural Tissue

a type of tissue found in the nervous system that is responsible for corrdinating and controlling bodily functions.

Neurons

nerve cells that send messages all over your body to allow you to do everything from breathing to talking, eating, walking, and thinking.

Serous Membrane

a thin lining of close cavities of the body, consisting of a single layer of squamous epithelial cells resting on a thin layer of connective tissue, covered with a screted clear fluid from blood and lymph vessels.

Stem Cells

Unspecialized cells with the ability to differentiate and self-renew.