Connective Tissue Types

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to connective tissue from the lecture notes.

Adipose

A loose connective tissue that provides reserve food fuel, insulates against heat loss, and supports and protects organs.

Reticular fibers

Fibers that form a soft internal skeleton (stroma) that supports other cell types including white blood cells and macrophages.

Dense regular connective tissue

Connective tissue primarily made up of parallel collagen fibers, with major cells being fibroblasts, used to attach muscles to bones or other muscles.

Dense irregular connective tissue

Connective tissue composed of irregularly arranged collagen fibers that provides structural strength and withstands tension in many directions.

Elastic connective tissue

Dense regular connective tissue that contains a high proportion of elastic fibers, allowing tissues to recoil after stretching.

Fibrocartilage

A type of cartilage with a matrix similar to but less firm than hyaline cartilage, and thick collagen fibers, allowing it to absorb compressive shock.

Bone

Hard, calcified connective tissue containing collagen fibers and osteocytes, providing support and protection while also serving as a site for blood cell formation.

Epithelial tissue characteristics

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

Areolar connective tissue

Loose connective tissue with a gel-like matrix that wraps and cushions organs, plays roles in inflammation, and holds tissue fluid.

Hypodermis

The subcutaneous layer of tissue under the skin, often associated with adipose tissue and other connective tissues.