Biology II - Unit 2: Histology (Loose Connective Tissues)

Biology II

loose connective tissue

many space between fibers of the matrix

3 types of loose connective tissues

areolar, reticular, and adipose

areolar matrix description

gel-like ground substance including all 3 fiber tyoes

areolar function

serves as packing material that wraps and cushions organs

areolar location

under epithelial tissues and around organs

reticular matrix description

gel-like ground substance, but only has reticular fibers (no collagen and elastin)

reticular function

forms a soft skeleton that supports other cells

reticular location

lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow

adipose matrix description

very little matrix, made mainly of tightly packed adipocytes (fat cells)

adipose function

energy reserves, insulates body heat, cushions organs

adipose location

under skin, around kidneys and heart

what is the most common type of connective tissue in the body

areolar tissue