Connective Tissue

Question 1

What are the main characteristics of CT?

Answer 1

Few cells.
Space filled with an extracellular matrix (fibres, ground substance and fluid).

Question 2

Describe areolar tissue.

Answer 2

Loose CT.
Found under the skin.
The initial site of defence against bacteria.

Question 3

Describe adipose tissue.

Answer 3

Loose CT.
Found under the skin, between internal organs and inner bone cavities.
Has a rich blood supply.

Question 4

What is the difference between white and brown fat?

Answer 4

White - adult, stores energy.
Brown - foetal, generates heat.

Question 5

Describe dense irregular CT.

Answer 5

Has thick collagen fibres that run in all directions.
Found in the dermis of the skin and fibrous capsules of organs and joints.
Provides structural strength.

Question 6

Describe regular dense CT.

Answer 6

Closely packed collagen fibres that all run in the direction.
Forms tendons and ligaments.
Can withstand great tensile stress.

Question 7

What are examples of specialised CT?

Answer 7

Cartilage.
Bone.
Blood.

Question 8

What cells are found in CT?

Answer 8

Fibroblasts - synthesises collagen.
Macrophages - destroys pathogens.
Adipocytes - stores energy.
Mast cells - involved with inflammation.
WBCs - protects against pathogens.

Question 9

What fibres exist in the ECM?

Answer 9

Collagen - provides tensile strength.
Elastin - provides elasticity (in sheets).
Reticular - supports cellular organs.

Question 10

What is the function of the ground substance?

Answer 10

Involved in the development of tissues.
Allows for the exchange of substances.