1. Specialized Connective Tissue Notes

2. 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

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

5. 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

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

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

10. 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

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