Types of Tissues in the Human Body

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to the types of tissues found in the human body, including definitions and specific characteristics.

Epithelial Tissue

Covers body surfaces and organs; lines body cavities and hollow structures.

Connective Tissue

Binds and supports body parts.

Muscular Tissue

Contracts to produce movement.

Nervous Tissue

Responds to stimuli and transmits signals.

Simple Epithelium

Composed of a single layer of cells.

Stratified Epithelium

Composed of two or more layers of cells.

Cuboidal Epithelium

Has cube-shaped cells.

Columnar Epithelium

Has tall, elongated cells.

Transitional Epithelium

Specialized tissue that can stretch.

Pseudostratified Columnar Epithelium

Appears stratified but is a single layer of cells.

Simple Squamous Epithelium

Composed of a single layer of flattened cells, allowing for diffusion.

Stratified Squamous Epithelium

Has many cell layers and is important for protection.

Keratin

A protein that waterproofs and strengthens epithelial tissue.

Loose Connective Tissue

Contains fewer cells and fibers than dense connective tissue.

Adipose Tissue

Stores fat and provides cushioning for organs.

Reticular Connective Tissue

Contains reticular fibers and is involved in immune functions.

Dense Regular Connective Tissue

Composed of parallel collagen fibers, found in tendons and ligaments.

Dense Irregular Connective Tissue

Has fiber bundles running in different directions, found in dermis.

Elastic Connective Tissue

Contains elastic fibers, found in large arteries and vocal cords.

Skeletal Muscle

Under conscious control, attached to the skeleton.

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary muscle that contracts rhythmically on its own.

Cardiac Muscle

Found in the heart; combines features of skeletal and smooth muscle.