Biological Tissue Organisation

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to biological tissue organisation.

What are the four principal types of biological tissue?

Epithelial, Muscle, Connective, Nervous

What is the function of epithelial tissue?

Covers body surfaces, lines hollow organs, body cavities and ducts, and forms glands.

What are the embryological origins of connective tissue?

Derived from the mesoderm, specifically from mesenchyme.

Name the three primary germ layers in the developing embryo.

Endoderm, Mesoderm, Ectoderm.

What is extracellular matrix (ECM)?

A component of connective tissue that includes fibers and ground substance, acting as a filler and influencing tissue properties.

What is the function of fibroblasts in connective tissue?

Fibroblasts secrete fibers and matrix.

What types of cells make up nervous tissue?

Neurons and neuroglia.

What is the main function of muscle tissue?

Responsible for movement and generation of force.

What is unique about the structure of smooth muscle?

Smooth muscle cells are spindle-shaped and non-striated with a single central nucleus.

What type of epithelial tissue is specialized for secretion?

Glandular epithelium.

What are the key properties of connective tissue?

Widely distributed, connects structures, has abundant extracellular material.

What types of glands are classified under glandular epithelium?

Unicellular and multicellular glands.

What type of secretion is produced by merocrine glands?

Secretion is produced by exocytosis.

What is the function of cartilage?

Maintaining structure and connections between tissues, providing protection.

What are the three types of muscle tissue?

Skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle.

What is the basement membrane's function in epithelial tissue?

Provides a substrate for cells to anchor and guides cell migration during development.

What are the major functions of epithelial tissue?

Protection, secretion, absorption, filtration, transportation, excretion, sensory reception, and reproduction.

What is the primary function of neurons?

To convert stimuli into nerve impulses and conduct these impulses to other neurons, muscles or glands.