Connective Tissues Page 81 - 85

Functions Protection Support Binding together other body tissues

Characteristics Most connective tissues are vascularized (have good blood supply) Ligaments and tendons are exceptions Contains extracellular matrix nonliving substance found outside the cells produced by the connective tissue

Types of Connective Tissue Bone = Osseous Cartilage Dense connective Loose connective Areolar Adipose Reticular Blood

Bone / Osseous Cells are in cavities (lacunae) Matrix – hard; contains calcium salts and collagen fibers Protects and supports

Bone / Osseous

Cartilage Matrix is more flexible made of collagen fiber hidden by a rubbery matrix with a glassy white appearance. Found in the larynx; covers ends of bones; attaches ribs to breastbone; skeleton of fetus

Cartilage

Dense Connective Main matrix are collagen fibers. More stretchy than cartilage matrix. Makes of tendons and ligaments.

Dense Connective

Loose Connective – Areolar Tissue Most widely distributed Cushions organs Has fluid matrix – appears to be empty space “cobwebby” tissue

Loose Connective – Areolar Tissue

Loose Connective – Adipose Tissue Fat tissue Matrix – droblet of oil in cell Cushions organs such as kidneys and eyes; found under the skin

Loose Connective – Adipose Tissue

Loose Connective – Reticular Tissue Matrix – delicate network of interwoven reticular fibers Support free blood cells in lymph nodes, spleen and bone marrow

Loose Connective – Reticular Tissue

Blood Vascular tissue Matrix – blood plasma Transports wastes, respiratory gases, nutrients and other substances.

Blood