Embryonic & Loose Connective Tissues

What is the structure of mesenchyme (embryonic) connective tissue?

Irregularly shaped mesenchymal cells with abundant matrix

What is the function of mesenchyme connective tissue?

To differentiate

What is the structure of areolar connective tissue?

Numerous types of cells, various types of protein fibers, abundant ground substance, and mostly fibroblasts

What are the functions of areolar connective tissue?

Acts as a general space-filling tissue and connects epithelial tissues to deeper tissues

Where is areolar connective tissue located?

Underlying almost all epithelial tissues, and in and around almost all body structures

What does adipose connective tissue mostly contain?

Adipocytes

What are the functions of adipose tissue?

Insulation, energy reserve, cushioning, and protection

What is most fat in adults called?

White fat (regular fat)

What type of fat do infants have large amounts of?

Brown fat

Why do infants have brown fat?

They have a lot of mitochondria to produce body heat due to not being very mobile

Where is adipose connective tissue located?

In the subcutaneous layer deep in the skin, around the heart and kidneys, and padding around eyeballs and joints

What is the structure of reticular connective tissue?

Supportive framework of reticular fibers with abundant ground substance

What are the functions of reticular connective tissue?

Forms the stroma, filters blood in the spleen, and removes microbes in lymphatic organs

Where is reticular connective tissue located?

Stroma of the liver, thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, tonsils, and red bone marrow