General A&P Lab Exam 1: Histology and Tissues Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering histology definitions, four primary tissue types, cell layer and shape classifications, specific epithelial tissues, and complete tissue structure lists for Lab Exam 1.

Tissue

A group of cells working together to perform a common function, serving as a building block of organs, and composed of cells plus extracellular matrix (ECM).

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

The substance located outside of cells in a tissue.

Epithelial Tissue

A covering and lining tissue type characterized by tightly packed cells with very little extracellular matrix, high regenerative capacity, an apical (top/exposed) surface, and a basal (bottom/attached) surface connected to a basement membrane.

Nervous Tissue

A primary tissue type responsible for communication and control.

Connective Tissue

A primary tissue type that serves various functions, including support, transport, and energy storage.

Muscle Tissue

A primary tissue type responsible for movement.

Apical Surface

The top, exposed surface of an epithelial tissue.

Basal Surface

The bottom, attached surface of an epithelial tissue.

Simple Epithelium

An epithelial tissue composed of a single layer of cells.

Stratified Epithelium

An epithelial tissue composed of multiple cell layers.

Squamous Cells

Flattened epithelial cells.

Cuboidal Cells

Cube-shaped epithelial cells.

Columnar Cells

Tall, rectangular epithelial cells.

Simple Squamous Epithelium

An epithelial tissue consisting of a single layer of flattened cells; functions in filtration and diffusion/exchange; located in the lungs (air sacs/alveoli), kidneys, and blood vessel lining.

Simple Cuboidal Epithelium

An epithelial tissue consisting of a single layer of cube-shaped cells (sometimes arranged in rings); functions in secretion and absorption; located in the kidneys and glands.

Simple Columnar Epithelium

An epithelial tissue consisting of a single layer of column-shaped cells; functions in secretion (enzymes, acid, mucus) and absorption (nutrients); located in the GI tract lining (stomach, intestines like the ileum).

Goblet Cells

Specialized cells found in simple columnar epithelium that function to make mucus.

Epithelial Tissues List

The 6 epithelial tissues on Lab Exam 1: Simple Squamous Epithelium, Simple Cuboidal Epithelium, Simple Columnar Epithelium, Pseudostratified Ciliated Columnar Epithelium, Stratified Squamous Epithelium, and Transitional Epithelium.

Connective Tissues List

The 9 connective tissues on Lab Exam 1: Areolar Connective Tissue, Adipose Connective Tissue, Dense Regular Connective Tissue, Dense Irregular Connective Tissue, Hyaline Cartilage, Elastic Cartilage, Fibrocartilage, Compact Bone, and Blood.

Muscle Tissues List

The 3 muscle tissues on Lab Exam 1: Skeletal Muscle, Cardiac Muscle, and Smooth Muscle.