Cartilage

What are the characteristics of Cartilage?

Firm, flexible tissues

Contains no blood vessels or nerves

Cell type - chondrocyte

What are the types of Cartilage?

Hyaline, Elastic, & Fibrocartilage

Hyaline Cartilage

Chondrocytes are housed within lacunae in an amorphous but firm matrix

What is the function of Hyaline Cartilage?

Support & reinforces; has resilient cushioning properties, resists compressive forces

Where is Hyaline Cartilage founded?

forms the embryonic skeleton, covers the ends of long bones & in joints; forms costal cartilage of the ribs, is the cartilage in the nose, trachea, & larynx

Elastic Cartilage

Similar to Hyaline, but with more elastic fibers in the matrix

What is the function of Elastic Cartilage?

Maintains the shape of a structure while allowing great flexibility

Where is Elastic Cartilage founded?

supports the external ear

Fibrocartilage

similar to hyaline cartilage but less firm, has many thick collagen fibers

What does Fibro mean?

Tough

What is the function of Fibrocartilage?

has strength against tension (pulling) forces; also has the ability to absorb compressive forces

Where is Fibrocartilage founded?

Intervertebral discs between vertebrae, pubic symphysis & discs of the knee joint

Bone

has osteocytes in lacunae, is ring-like in appearance

What is the function of the bone?

support & protects organ; provides an attachment site for muscles; stores calcium & other materials

Where is the bone found?

skeletal system

Blood tissue

Consists of cells surrounded by fluid matrix; contains RBC, WBC, platelets, & plasma

What is the function of blood tissue?

Transport of respiratory gases, nutrients, & wastes (hormones)

Where is blood found?

Circulatory system