Complete_A_P_II_Flashcards__46_Terms_

Microvilli

Small projections on epithelial cells that increase surface area for absorption.

Goblet cells

Specialized epithelial cells that secrete mucus to protect and lubricate surfaces.

Exocrine glands

Glands that secrete their products through ducts to the surface of an organ or tissue.

Endocrine glands

Glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream without using ducts.

Avascular

Lacking blood vessels.

Basement membrane

Supports epithelial tissue and anchors it to connective tissue.

Simple epithelial tissue

Single layer of cells; includes simple squamous (diffusion), simple cuboidal (secretion), and simple columnar (absorption).

Keratin

A protein that strengthens and waterproofs skin and epithelial cells.

Stratified epithelium

Multiple layers of cells that protect against abrasion.

Stratified squamous epithelium

Found in the skin, mouth, and esophagus.

Transitional epithelium

Found in the urinary bladder and ureters, allowing stretching.

Pseudostratified epithelium

Found in the respiratory tract, such as the trachea.

Fibroblasts

Cells that produce fibers like collagen in connective tissue.

Cell junctions

Structures that connect adjacent cells to each other or to the extracellular matrix.

Tight junction

Seals cells together to prevent leakage between them.

Gap junction

Allows communication and molecule exchange between cells.

Desmosome

Anchoring junctions that hold cells together strongly.

Hemidesmosome

Attach epithelial cells to the basement membrane.

Mast cells

Release histamine and play a role in inflammation and allergic responses.

Plasma cell

A type of white blood cell that produces antibodies.

Acinar gland

An exocrine gland with a rounded, sac-like shape.

Apocrine secretion

Involves the release of product with a portion of the cell membrane.

Holocrine secretion

Release secretions by rupturing the entire cell.

Merocrine secretion

Release products via exocytosis without losing cell parts.

-blast

Suffix indicating an immature cell that builds or forms tissue.

-cyte

Suffix indicating a mature cell that maintains tissue.

-clast

Suffix indicating a cell that breaks down tissue.

Matrix of connective tissue

Can be solid (bone), liquid (blood), or semisolid (cartilage).

Embryonic connective tissue

The earliest form of connective tissue found in the embryo.

Neuroglia

Support cells in the nervous system that protect and nourish neurons.

Mesenchyme

Embryonic connective tissue that gives rise to all connective tissues.

Hyaluronic acid

A molecule that helps lubricate joints and maintain connective tissue hydration.

Adipose tissue

Tissue that stores energy, insulates, and cushions organs.

Lacuna

A small space in bone or cartilage that houses a cell.

Haversian system

A system of concentric bone layers surrounding a central canal for blood vessels.

Lamella

Concentric rings of bone matrix in compact bone.

Connexons

Protein channels that form gap junctions between cells.

Canaliculi

Tiny channels in bone that connect lacunae and allow communication between bone cells.

Serous membrane

A thin membrane lining closed body cavities and secreting serous fluid.

Intercalated discs

Specialized junctions between cardiac muscle cells for synchronized contractions.

Bursa

A fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues like bone and tendon.

Tendon

Connects muscle to bone.

Ligament

Connects bone to bone and stabilizes joints.

Blood-brain barrier

A selective barrier that protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood.