The Cells of Connective Tissue Fibroblasts Macrophages Fat cells/ Adipose cells Mast cells Plasma cells

Connective Tissue

Fibroblast Most common in connective tissue Synthesize the extracellular matrix and collagen. Play a critical role in would healing.

Fibroblast

Macrophage Phage= to eat Cyte= cell Macrophages are active phagocytes and type of white blood cell Engulf and destroy foreign material and damaged cells.

Macrophage

Fat Cells/ Adipose Cells Synthesizes and contains large globules of fat Also serve as a fuel reserve

Mast Cells Mediate inflammatory responses such as hypersensitivity and allergic reactions Store a number of chemical mediators

Plasma Cells Involved in the synthesis, storage, and release of antibodies Each cell can secrete several thousand molecules of antibodies

The Fibers Collagen Fibers- scars are made of collagen Elastic Fibers- help restore normal shape after distortion Reticular Fibers-very delicate

Loose (Areolar) Connective Tissue Location: Beneath most epithelial layers Muscles Functions: Nourish nearby epithelial cells Fill spaces between muscles Binds skin to underlying organs.

Adipose Connective Tissue Locations: Joints Some organs ( Kidney, heart) Lower layer of skin Behind eye balls Functions: Cushioning Insulation Energy storage

Hayline Cartilage Locations: Ends of bones in many joints Supporting rings of trachea Functions: Development and growth of most bones Keep respiratory passageway open Elastic Cartilage: Locations: Ears (External) Larynx Functions: Framework for ear and voicebox.

Fibrocartilage: Locations: Vertebrae Bones in the knee Pelvic girdle Functions: Shock absorber, cushions