tissue level

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the types of tissue and their characteristics as discussed in the human bioscience lecture.

Epithelial Tissue

Epithelial tissues are composed of tightly packed cells with minimal extracellular matrix, serving as a protective barrier.

Connective Tissue

A category of tissue that supports, binds together, and protects tissues and organs of the body.

Muscle Tissue

A tissue composed of cells or fibres that can contract to facilitate movement of the body.

Nervous Tissue

Nervous tissue contains neurons that transmit signals and glial cells that support and protect neurons.

Cell Differentiation

The process by which less specialized cells develop into more specialized cells.

Pluripotent Stem Cells

Stem cells that can develop into any cell type.

Avascular

Lacking blood vessels; a characteristic of epithelial tissue.

Simple Epithelium

A single layer of epithelial cells.

Stratified Epithelium

Multiple layers of epithelial cells.

Cuboidal Cells

Epithelial cells that are cube-shaped.

Squamous Cells

Thin, flat epithelial cells.

Columnar Cells

Elongated epithelial cells.

Goblet Cells

Unicellular exocrine glands that secrete mucus.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that release secretions into ducts that open onto epithelial surfaces.

Tissue

An organized aggregation of cells (and their products) that function collectively.

Polarity in Epithelial Tissue

Refers to the structural and functional differences between the apical surface and the basal surface.

Basement Membrane

A thin, fibrous extracellular matrix that separates epithelial cells from underlying connective tissue.

Microvilli

Small finger-like projections on the surface of epithelial cells that increase surface area for absorption.

Cilia

Hair-like structures that help move substances across the surface of epithelial cells.

Stem Cells in Epithelial Tissue

Undifferentiated cells located around the basal lamina that divide rapidly to replenish epithelial cells.

Regeneration in Epithelial Tissue

The ability of epithelial tissue to repair and regenerate after damage.

Characteristics of Epithelial Tissue

Includes cellularity, specialized contacts, polarity, support by connective tissue, and avascularity.

Specialized Contacts

Tight junctions and desmosomes that hold epithelial cells together.

Control Permeability

The ability of epithelial tissues to regulate the passage of substances.

Functions of Epithelial Tissue

Physical protection, control of permeability, sensation, and secretion.

Simple Squamous Epithelium

A single layer of flat cells that allows passage of materials by diffusion and filtration.

Stratified Squamous Epithelium

Multiple layers of flat cells that provide protection against mechanical stress.

Simple Cuboidal Epithelium

A single layer of cube-shaped cells that permits secretion and absorption.

Simple Columnar Epithelium

A single layer of elongated cells that allows absorption and secretion.

Keratinized Stratified Squamous Epithelium

A type of epithelial tissue with a tough, protective outer layer.

Nonkeratinized Stratified Squamous Epithelium

Epithelial tissue that remains moist and is found in areas subject to abrasion.

Pseudostratified Epithelium

A single layer of cells of differing heights, giving the appearance of multiple layers.

Where is epithelial tissue commonly found in the body?

Epithelial tissue lines the surfaces of organs and body cavities, including the skin, respiratory tract, and digestive tract.

Where is muscle tissue located in the body?

Muscle tissue is found in the heart (cardiac muscle), the walls of hollow organs (smooth muscle), and attached to bones (skeletal muscle).

Where is nervous tissue primarily located in the body?

Nervous tissue is found in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.