Biology II - Unit 2: Histology (Dense Connective Tissue)

Biology II

Dense connective tissue

few spaces between fibers of the matrix, also called fibrous CT

3 types of dense connective tissues

regular, irregular, and elastic

regular matrix description

closely packed, parallel collagen fibers

strong when pulled in one direction, tear when pulled in other direction

regular location

tendons and ligaments

regular function

tendons connect muscle to bone/muscles

ligaments connect bones to bones

irregular matrix description

randomly arranged collagen fibers

irregular function

strong when pulled in many directions

irregular location

dermis, fibrous coverings that surround organs and joints

elastic matrix description

high number of elastic fibers

elastic function

allows tissues to bounce back after stretching

elastic location

walls of arteries, ligaments connective vertebrae, lungs