Histology: The Study of Cells and Tissues

These flashcards cover vocabulary and key concepts related to histology, including definitions of tissue types and their functions.

Histology

The study of cells and tissues.

Tissue

A group of similar cells and cell products.

Organ

Composed of two or more tissue types, typically connective and epithelial tissue.

Epithelial Tissue

Consists of one or more layers of closely adhering cells with little extracellular matrix.

Basement Membrane

A thin layer of collagen and adhesive proteins that anchors epithelium to underlying connective tissue.

Simple Epithelium

Contains one layer of cells named for the shape of the cells.

Stratified Epithelium

Contains more than one layer of cells named for the shape of the apical cells.

Pseudostratified Epithelium

A simple epithelium that appears stratified, with nuclei that look stacked.

Squamous Cells

Flat, scale-like cells that allow rapid diffusion of substances.

Cuboidal Cells

Square-shaped cells involved in absorption and secretion.

Columnar Cells

Rectangular cells involved in absorption and secretion, sometimes with cilia.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that maintain a connection to surface through a duct.

Endocrine Glands

Glands that secrete products directly into the bloodstream without ducts.

Serous Glands

Produce thin, watery secretions such as sweat and tears.

Mucous Glands

Produce a glycoprotein called mucin that forms a sticky secretion known as mucus.

Tight Junctions

Connections that encircle cells, preventing substances from passing between them.

Desmosomes

Junctions that hold cells together against mechanical stress.

Gap Junctions

Connections that allow for cell communication through channels between cells.

Connective Tissue

Tissue type composed of widely spaced cells separated by fibers and ground substance called extracellular matrix (ECM).

Blast Cells

Mitotic cells that secrete ground substance and fibers for the matrix.

Adipocytes

Fat cells that store triglycerides.

Hyaline Cartilage

The most common type of cartilage, with a clear matrix and fine collagen fibers.

Fibrocartilage

Cartilage with extensive parallel collagen fibers, resists compression and absorbs shock.

Elastic Cartilage

Cartilage containing more elastic fibers for flexibility.

Skeletal Muscle

Voluntary muscle attached to bones, responsible for movement.

Cardiac Muscle

Involuntary muscle found in the heart that pumps blood.

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary muscle found in the walls of vessels and organs.

Nervous Tissue

Tissue responsible for communication and control in the body, consisting of neurons and glial cells.

Mucous Membranes

Membranes that line passageways opening to the exterior, containing epithelial and connective tissues.

Serous Membrane

Internal epithelial membrane lining major body cavities and covering organs.