Chapter 04: Tissue: The Living Fabric

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on connective tissues and their properties, functions, types, and processes related to tissue repair.

Connective Tissue

The most abundant and widely distributed primary tissue, involved in binding and support, protection, insulation, storage of reserve fuel, and transportation of substances.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A composition of ground substance and fibers that supports cells in connective tissues and allows them to bear weight and withstand tension.

Ground Substance

The unstructured gel-like material that fills the space between cells in connective tissues, allowing diffusion of solutes.

Collagen Fibers

The strongest and most abundant type of connective tissue fiber, providing high tensile strength.

Elastic Fibers

Networks of long, thin elastin fibers in connective tissue that allow for stretch and recoil.

Fibroblasts

Immature cells in connective tissue that actively secrete ground substance and ECM fibers.

Chondrocytes

Mature cartilage cells that maintain the health of the cartilage matrix.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells that help maintain the matrix and reside in cavities called lacunae.

Blood

An atypical connective tissue that consists of cells surrounded by a fluid matrix (plasma) and functions in transportation and immune response.

Regeneration

A process of tissue repair where the same kind of tissue replaces destroyed tissue, restoring original function.

Fibrosis

A process of tissue repair where connective tissue replaces destroyed tissue, resulting in loss of original function.

Mucous Membrane

Membranes that line body cavities open to the exterior; moist membranes that may secrete mucus.

Serous Membrane

Membranes found in closed body cavities composed of simple squamous epithelium and supporting connective tissue, providing a moist environment.

Avascular Cartilage

Cartilage tissue that lacks blood vessels and receives nutrients through surrounding membranes, leading to slower healing.

Primary Germ Layers

Three layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm) formed during early embryonic development that give rise to the four primary tissue types.