Unit 5: Tissues

Tissue

A group or mass of similar cells working together to perform common functions.

Epithelial Tissue

Covers all body surfaces both inside and out; main glandular tissue.

Connective Tissue

Most abundant tissue in the body; binds structures, provides support and protection.

Muscle Tissue

Tissue that enables movement by contracting.

Nervous Tissue

Tissue that transmits signals through neurons and supports cells.

Simple Epithelial

A single layer of cells.

Stratified Epithelial

Multiple layers of cells.

Squamous Cells

Flat cells.

Cuboidal Cells

Square cells.

Columnar Cells

Rectangle-shaped cells.

Simple Squamous Epithelium

Single layer of flat cells; allows diffusion and filtration.

Simple Cuboidal Epithelium

Single layer of cube-shaped cells; involved in secretion and absorption.

Simple Columnar Epithelium

Single layer of tall cells; functions in secretion and absorption.

Stratified Squamous Epithelium

Multiple layers of flat cells; provides protection.

Pseudostratified Columnar Epithelium

Appears stratified but is a single layer; often contains cilia and goblet cells.

Transitional Epithelium

Stretchable tissue that blocks diffusion, found in the urinary bladder.

Glandular Epithelium

Specialized cells that secrete substances, forming glands.

Mast Cells

Cells in connective tissue that prevent blood clotting.

Macrophages

Cells that consume pathogens and debris.

Fibroblasts

Cells that produce fibers in connective tissue.

Collagenous Fibers

Provide strength and support in connective tissue, found in bones, ligaments, and tendons.

Elastic Fibers

Facilitate flexibility; found in the ears and vocal cords.

Loose Connective Tissue

Binds organs to each other and forms membranes.

Adipose Tissue

Stores energy, provides cushioning, and insulates the body.

Fibrous Connective Tissue

Composed of collagen fibers; connects muscles to bones (tendons) and bones to bones (ligaments).

Cartilage

Dense connective tissue with a flexible matrix, containing chondrocytes.

Hyaline Cartilage

Covers ends of joints and respiratory passages; serves as padding.

Elastic Cartilage

Provides flexibility; found in the external ear and larynx.

Fibrocartilage

Tough cartilage that absorbs shock; found between vertebrae.

Bone Tissue

Hard tissue that provides structure and support.

Blood Tissue

Fluid connective tissue that transports nutrients and oxygen.

Smooth Muscle Tissue

Involuntary muscle found in walls of organs.

Cardiac Muscle Tissue

Involuntary muscle that makes up the heart.

Skeletal Muscle Tissue

Voluntary muscle that moves bones.

Neurons

Cells that transmit signals in the nervous system.

Neuroglia

Supporting cells in the nervous system.

Melanocytes

Cells that produce melanin, affecting skin pigmentation.

Keratinocytes

Cells that produce keratin, providing protection.

MC1R Gene

Gene involved in pigmentation.

Folate

Vitamin important for cell function and development.

Vitamin D

Nutrient produced in the skin; crucial for bone health.

Sutures

Stitches used to hold tissue together during healing.

Alternatives to sutures

Glues, medical tapes, and staples used for skin closure.

Rapid Healing

Characteristic of epithelial cells due to their ability to reproduce quickly.

Basement Membrane

Layer that anchors epithelial tissue to underlying connective tissue.

Goblet Cells

Cells that secrete mucus in certain types of epithelial tissue.

Microvilli

Tiny projections that increase surface area in cells.