Tissue Level of Organization

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the tissue level of organization in human biology.

Histology

The study of tissues.

Epithelial tissues

Covers exposed surfaces, lines internal passageways, and produces glandular secretions.

Connective tissues

Fills internal spaces, provides structural support, and stores energy.

Muscle tissues

Contracts to produce active movements.

Nervous tissue

Conducts electrical impulses; detects, interprets, and responds to stimuli.

Endoderm

Gives rise to the functional linings of the digestive and respiratory tracts.

Mesoderm

Gives rise to components of the skeletal, muscular, and circulatory systems.

Ectoderm

Gives rise to the epidermis of skin and all components of the nervous system.

Mucous Membranes

Composed of epithelial tissues, line body cavities that open to the exterior.

Serous Membranes

Consists of mesothelium supported by areolar tissue, secretes transudate.

Cutaneous Membranes

Made of stratified squamous and areolar tissue, dry, thick, and waterproof.

Synovial Membranes

Line mobile joint cavities, secrete synovial fluid.

Polarity in Epithelial Tissues

Epithelial cells possess two structurally and functionally different surfaces.

Occluding junctions

Form a barrier that isolates deeper tissues from the lumen's contents.

Avascular

Epithelial tissues lack blood vessels; nutrient and waste exchange occurs via diffusion.

Merocrine glands

Glands that secrete products from secretory vesicles by exocytosis.

Holocrine glands

Glands that accumulate products until the cell ruptures, destroying the cell.

Goblet cells

Unicellular glands that produce mucin, mixing with water to form mucus.

Loose Connective Tissue

Connective tissue with fibers creating a loose, open framework.

Adipose tissue

Connective tissue that provides padding and stores energy in fat cells.

Hyaline cartilage

A type of cartilage found in the ribs, nose, and covering articular surfaces.

Compact bone

The weight-bearing outer layer of bone, composed of organized osteons.

Neurons

Cells that conduct electrical impulses in the nervous system.