Connective Tissue

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to connective tissue, including cell types, functions, fibers, ground substance, and related disorders.

Connective Tissue

A type of tissue that connects and supports different types of tissues and organs.

Resident Cells

Cells that are in a stable state within the connective tissue and perform various functions such as maintenance and repair.

Wandering Cells

Transient cells in connective tissue that migrate upon stimulus and serve specific, often short-lived functions.

Fibroblasts

The most abundant and less specialized cells in connective tissue proper that produce most ECM components.

Fibrocytes

The quiescent, less active state of fibroblasts, smaller in size with less cytoplasm.

Myofibroblast

Cells exhibiting properties of both fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, crucial for wound healing.

Adipocytes

Specialized cells that store lipids and are involved in energy release under hormonal control.

Macrophages

Irregularly shaped cells that activate immune responses by engulfing pathogens and debris.

Collagen

The most abundant protein in the human body, providing strength and resistant to shearing and tearing forces.

Elastic Fibers

Thin, branching fibers composed of elastin, allowing tissue to return to shape after stretching.

Ground Substance

The gel-like medium in which connective tissue cells and fibers are embedded, aiding in nutrient exchange and providing support.

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)

Long chains of disaccharides that form gel-like substances in the ground substance, providing cushioning and space-filling.

Proteoglycans

Molecules consisting of a core protein and GAGs, playing a role in mechanical resistance and controlling the passage of molecules.

Mucopolysaccharidosis (Hurler Syndrome)

A rare congenital disorder leading to the accumulation of GAGs due to enzyme deficiency, causing developmental issues.

Multiadhesive Glycoproteins

Molecules that connect cells to the ECM components, facilitating various biological processes.

Connective Tissue Classification

Categories of connective tissue include Proper (loose, dense irregular, dense regular), Embryonic (mesenchyme, mucoid), and Specialized tissues.