Tissue, Glands, and Membranes Lecture Notes

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to tissue types, their functions, and related structures in the body.

Tissue

Collections of similar cells working together to perform a shared function that supports life.

Extracellular matrix

The material between cells that provides structural and biochemical support.

Epithelial tissue

Forms protective sheets that line and cover internal and external surfaces; involved in absorption and secretion.

Connective tissue

Provides structure and support, holds organs in place, and connects different body parts; includes blood, bone, and cartilage.

Muscle tissue

Specialized for contraction; produces movement of the body or internal organs.

Nervous tissue

Responsible for sensing stimuli and transmitting electrical signals for coordination and communication.

Visceral layer

The inner layer of a membrane that surrounds organs.

Parietal layer

The outer layer of a membrane that lines body cavities.

Simple squamous epithelium

Allows easy passage of substances due to thin, flat cells; ideal for gas exchange.

Stratified squamous epithelium

Offers protection in high friction areas; composes the outer layer of the skin.

Simple cuboidal epithelium

Lines ducts and is involved in secretion and absorption.

Simple columnar epithelium

Lines much of the digestive tract; involved in absorption and secretion.

Pseudostratified epithelium

Appears stratified but is a single layer; contains cilia and goblet cells.

Transitional epithelium

Specialized to stretch and relax; found in the bladder.

Adipose tissue

A type of connective tissue that stores energy, provides insulation, and cushions organs.

Bone

Provides structural support, protects organs, and serves as a site for blood cell production.

Cartilage

A flexible type of connective tissue that lacks a direct blood supply.

Blood

A type of circulating connective tissue that transports oxygen, nutrients, and waste throughout the body.

Skeletal muscle

Voluntary muscle tissue attached to bones, enabling body movement.

Smooth muscle

Involuntary muscle found in organs; controls digestion and blood vessel diameter.

Cardiac muscle

Involuntary muscle tissue found in the heart.

Neuron

Nerve cells that carry signals called nerve impulses throughout the body.

Glia

Supporting cells in the nervous system that do not carry impulses but support neuron function.

Goblet cells

Special epithelial cells that secrete mucus in the respiratory and digestive tracts.

Mucous membranes

Line areas that open to the outside of the body and produce mucus to keep tissues moist.

Serous membranes

Line internal cavities and secrete serous fluid to lubricate organs.

Synovial membranes

Connective tissue membranes that line joint cavities and secrete synovial fluid for lubrication.

Hypodermis

The deepest layer of the skin, containing adipose tissue, blood vessels, and nerves.

Meninges

Three protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Hematopoietic tissue

The tissue in the bone marrow that produces blood cells.