Histology and Tissues Overview

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to histology and the various types of tissues.

Histology

The study of normal structures of tissues.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

The surrounding material composed of substances that support and hold cells in place within a tissue.

Epithelial Tissues

Tightly packed sheets of cells with no visible ECM that cover and line all body surfaces and cavities.

Connective Tissues

Tissues that connect all other tissues in the body, characterized by a prominent ECM.

Muscle Tissues

Tissues capable of generating force through contraction.

Nervous Tissues

Tissues that consist of neurons capable of transmitting messages and supporting cells.

Ground Substance

The component of the ECM made of extracellular fluid that houses nutrients and ions.

Protein Fibers

Long molecules within the ECM that provide structure; includes collagen, elastic, and reticular fibers.

Cell Junctions

Structures that connect neighboring cells' plasma membranes, including tight junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions.

Tight Junctions

Cell junctions that create an impermeable barrier between cells.

Desmosomes

Cell junctions that increase tissue strength by anchoring adjacent cells together.

Gap Junctions

Pores that allow communication between adjacent cells by permitting passage of small substances.

Simple Epithelia

Epithelial tissues consisting of a single layer of cells.

Stratified Epithelia

Epithelial tissues composed of more than one layer of cells.

Glandular Epithelium

Epithelial tissue that synthesizes and secretes products from cells.

Endocrine Glands

Glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream without ducts.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that release products onto epithelial surfaces or through ducts.

Adipose Tissue

Connective tissue that stores fat, provides insulation, and absorbs shock.

Cartilage

A specialized connective tissue that is tough and flexible, often found in joints.

Bone (Osseous Tissue)

Specialized connective tissue that supports and protects body structures and stores calcium.

Blood

A unique connective tissue with a liquid ECM called plasma, involved in transport.

Regeneration

The process by which dead and damaged cells are replaced with the same type.

Fibrosis

A process by which fibroblasts fill in gaps left from injury, leading to scar tissue.

Obesity

A condition of having excess adipose tissue; can be hypertrophic or hypercellular.

Carcinogens

Agents that induce DNA changes and may lead to cancer, particularly in epithelial tissues.