Connective Tissue

Provides structure framework for the body. Transports fluids and dissolved materials. Protects organs, stores energy, and defends body against invading microorganisms

Areolar Tissue - Loose Connective Tissue

Location

• Deep dermis of skin, covered by the epithelial lining of the digestive, respiratory, and urinary tracts. Around joints, blood vessels, and nerves.

Function

• Cushions organs, provides support, permits independent movement; phagocytic cells provide defense against pathogens.

Adipose Tissue (fat) - Loose Connective Tissue

Location

• Deep in tissue, especially at sides, buttocks, and breasts; padding around eyes and kidneys.

Function

• Provides padding and cushions sock; insulates; and stores energy.

Dense Regular Connective Tissue - Dense Connective Tissue

Location

• Between skeletal muscles and skeleton (tendons & aponeuroses; between bones or stabilizing positions of internal organs ligaments); covering skeletal muscles; deep fasciae

Function

• Provides firm attachment; conducts pull of muscles; reduces friction between muscles; stabilizes position of bones

Dense Irregular Connective Tissue - Dense Connective Tissue

Location

• Capsules of visceral organs, periostea and perichondria; nerve and muscle sheaths; dermis

Function

• Provides strength to resist forces from many directions; helps prevent over expansion of organs, such as the urinary bladder.

Hyaline Cartilage

Location

• Between tips of ribs and bones of sternum; covering bone surfaces at synovial joints; supporting larynx, trachea, and bronchi forming parts of nasal septum.

Function

• Provides stiff but flexible support. Reduces friction between bony surfaces.

Osseuos Connective Tissue

Function: Provide Structure, protect vital organs

Vascular Connective Tissue

Function: Transport nutrients, oxygen, waste, hormones throughout the body. Contains white blood cells to fight pathogens.