HISTOLOGY EXAM 1

What is histology?

The study of the microscopic structure of tissues.

What is the primary purpose of tissue fixation?

To preserve the morphology of the tissue for examination.

What type of solution is commonly used for tissue fixation?

Formalin is the most commonly used fixative.

What is the role of ethanol in tissue dehydration?

Ethanol removes water from tissues during the dehydration step.

What is the function of xylene in tissue processing?

Xylene helps in clearing the tissue by making it transparent.

What is the significance of embedding paraffin wax?

Paraffin wax supports the tissue for thin sectioning.

What is the primary function of a microtome?

To cut thin sections of embedded tissue for microscopy.

What is the purpose of staining tissues?

To enhance contrast and visualize specific structures.

What is the difference between H&E and PAS stains?

H&E stains general tissue structures, while PAS stains carbohydrates.

What does the apical surface of epithelial cells face?

It faces a lumen or external environment.

What characterizes simple cuboidal epithelium?

It consists of a single layer of cube-shaped cells.

Where can stratified squamous epithelium be found?

In areas of high abrasion like the skin and esophagus.

What type of connective tissue stores fat?

Adipose tissue.

What is the main function of collagen fibers?

To provide tensile strength and support in connective tissues.

What types of cells are present in loose connective tissue?

Fibroblasts, macrophages, and mast cells.

What is the key feature of dense regular connective tissue?

It has tightly packed collagen fibers aligned in one direction.

Where is cartilage found in the body?

In joints, ears, nose, and respiratory passages.

What is the role of osteocytes?

Osteocytes maintain bone tissue and its mineral content.

What is elastic cartilage?

Cartilage that has a high density of elastic fibers for flexibility.

What does the term 'matrix' refer to in connective tissue?

The extracellular substance that supports cells.

What is the most abundant protein in the body?

Collagen.

What type of epithelium is involved in absorption?

Simple columnar epithelium

Where are goblet cells found?

In simple columnar epithelium, secreting mucus.

What is the main function of epithelial tissue?

To cover and protect body surfaces and cavities.

What do desmosomes do?

They anchor adjacent cells together in tissues.

What is the significance of basal lamina?

It supports the epithelium and acts as a barrier.

What type of tissue underlies the skin?

Loose (Areolar) connective tissue.

What is the primary function of muscle tissue?

To facilitate movement of the body or internal organs.

What distinguishes cardiac muscle?

It is striated and involuntary, with intercalated discs.

What is a defining feature of smooth muscle?

It is non-striated and involuntary.

What is the structure of skeletal muscle?

It is striated and voluntary, composed of long fibers.

What type of connective tissue connects muscle to bone?

Tendons.

What is the role of ligaments in the body?

They connect bones to other bones at joints.

What is the function of adipose tissue?

To store energy and provide insulation.

What type of epithelium is specialized for secretion?

Glandular epithelium.

How do epithelial tissues receive nutrients?

They receive nutrients through diffusion from underlying connective tissues.

What does 'vascular' mean in reference to tissues?

Having a rich supply of blood vessels.

What are the key components of plasma in blood?

Water, electrolytes, proteins, and nutrients.

What type of connective tissue forms the framework for organs?

Reticular connective tissue.

What is fibrocartilage?

A tough form of cartilage with dense collagen fibers.

What is the primary function of synovial fluid?

To lubricate joints and reduce friction.

What does stratification in epithelial cells indicate?

It indicates multiple layers of cells for protection.

What is the role of cilia in certain epithelial cells?

To move substances over the epithelial surface.

How are epithelial tissues classified?

Based on cell shape and the number of layers.

What is the main function of the epidermis?

To provide a protective barrier for the body.

What does mucous membrane line?

It lines body cavities that open to the exterior.

What types of cells are found in nervous tissue?

Neurons and glial cells.

What is the primary role of neurons?

To transmit impulses throughout the body.

What is the main function of glial cells?

To support and protect neurons.

What is the significance of myelin sheaths?

To insulate axons and speed up signal transmission.

What do we mean by 'extracellular matrix'?

The non-cellular component that provides structural support to tissues.

What characterizes transitional epithelium?

It can stretch and is found in the urinary bladder.

What is the main function of the basement membrane?

To anchor epithelial tissues to underlying structures.

What does a histologist do?

A histologist studies tissue samples under a microscope.

What is the function of serous membranes?

To line body cavities and reduce friction between organs.

What defines the term 'osteon'?

The structural unit of compact bone.

What role do macrophages play in connective tissue?

They help in immune response and tissue repair.

What is the primary function of endothelial cells?

To line blood vessels and regulate exchange.

What does the term 'hemopoiesis' refer to?

The production of blood cells.

Where is reticular connective tissue commonly found?

In organs such as the spleen and lymph nodes.

What is the primary feature of cardiac muscle cells?

Intercalated discs for synchronized contraction.

What is a primary characteristic of smooth muscle tissue?

It is involuntary and not under conscious control.

What defines blood as a connective tissue?

It is a fluid connective tissue that transports nutrients, gases, and wastes.

What is the main characteristic of bone tissue?

It provides skeletal support and protects organs.

What is hyaline cartilage?

A type of cartilage found in joints and the respiratory tract.

Where can reticular connective tissue be found?

In lymphoid organs.

Simple squamous epithelium

Promotes gas exchange and reduces friction within the lumen of tubes.

Stratified squamous epithelium

Reduces physical damage from abrasion.

Simple cuboidal epithelium

Absorption and secretion in kidney tubules and some glands, like the thyroid.

Stratified cuboidal epithelium

Creates and lines most exocrine glands, like the sweat glands.

Simple columnar epithelium

Nonciliated is specialized for absorption, ciliated is specialized for movement of substances.

Stratified columnar epithelium

Protection and secretion in limited areas, like the salivary glands, conjunctiva, and male urethra.

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium

Lines upper respiratory tract where it secretes and moves mucus.

Transitional epithelium

Permits stretching and contraction of urinary tract structures.

What type of connective tissue is characterized?

Compact Bone

What is the main cell type found in compact bone?

The main cell type found in this tissue is osteocytes.

What type of fibers are contained in the extracellular matrix of compact bone?

It contains collagen fibers in the extracellular matrix.

Where can compact bone be found in the body?

It can be found in the skeletal system.

What type of connective tissue is characterized?

Adipose tissue.

What is the main cell type found in adipose tissue?

Adipocytes.

What type of fibers are contained in the extracellular matrix of adipose tissue?

Collagen fibers.

Where can adipose tissue be found in the body?

Surrounding internal organs.

What type of connective tissue is characterized?

Dense irregular connective tissue.

What is the main cell type found in dense irregular connective tissue?

Fibroblasts.

What type of fibers are contained in the extracellular matrix of dense irregular connective tissue?

Collagen fibers.

Where can dense irregular connective tissue be found in the body?

In the dermis of the skin.