Connective Tissue

Connective Tissue

The most abundant type of tissue found everywhere in the body.

Collagen

A major protein in connective tissue and the most common protein in the body.

Functions of Connective Tissue

Provides protection, binds body tissues together, and supports the body.

Blood Supply Variations

Some connective tissues are well vascularized, while others are avascular.

Extracellular Matrix

Nonliving material that surrounds living cells, secreted by connective tissue cells.

Ground Substance

A component of the extracellular matrix, composed mostly of water, adhesion proteins, and polysaccharide molecules.

Fibers in Extracellular Matrix

Three types include collagen fibers, elastic fibers, and reticular fibers.

Bone

The most rigid type of connective tissue, composed of osteocytes and a hard matrix of calcium salts.

Cartilage

More flexible than bone, with chondrocytes as the major cell type; includes hyaline, elastic, and fibrocartilage.

Hyaline Cartilage

The most widespread type of cartilage, found in the larynx and fetal skeleton, providing flexibility.

Elastic Cartilage

Provides elasticity and supports the external ear.

Fibrocartilage

Highly compressible, found in vertebral discs for cushioning.

Dense Connective Tissue

Main matrix element is collagen fibers, found in tendons, ligaments, and the dermis.

Loose Connective Tissue

Includes areolar tissue, which is soft and pliable, serving as packing tissue.

Adipose Tissue

Contains large lipid deposits, insulates the body, protects organs, and serves as fuel storage.

Reticular Connective Tissue

Forms a delicate network in organs like lymph nodes and spleen.

Blood

A vascular tissue with blood cells surrounded by plasma, functioning as a transport vehicle for nutrients and gases.