Specialized Connective Tissue Notes

BONE Consists of collagen fibers (flexibility) with hard matrix made of calcium salts Osteocytes – mature bone cells sit in cavities called Lacunae Osteon/ Haversian system - basic unit of compact bone

CARTILAGE Dense network of collagen fibers Matrix contains chondroitin sulfate, which is rubbery and gives cartilage resilience Chondrocytes – cartilage cells found in lacuanae

TYPES OF CARTILAGE Hyaline cartilage most abundant cartilage, and weakest very fine collagen fibers with gel as its ground substance Found in embryonic skeleton, ends of bone, nose, & ribs

Function: flexible, allows movement, reduces friction, absorbs shock and provides support Important in bone growth and repair

ELASTIC CARTILAGE Has condrocytes in a network of elastic fibers Found in: Epiglottis of the larynx and external ear

FIBROCARTILAGE Contains visible bundles of collagen fibers and combines strength and rigidity; strongest cartilage Found in intervertebral disk as a shock absorber and menisci (cartilage pads) in joints

BLOOD Consists of plasma (liquid) and formed elements: erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells) , and platelets