definition of viscosity of connective tissue

The macrophage cells are an essential component of the immune system, which is the body’s defense against potential pathogens and degraded host cells. The macrophage cell is a large cell derived from a monocyte, a type of blood cell, which enters the connective tissue matrix from the blood vessels. These cells can differentiate into any type of connective tissue cells needed for repair and healing of damaged tissue. The mesenchymal cell is a multipotent adult stem cell. The number and type of adipocytes depends on the tissue and location, and vary among individuals in the population. Their effectiveness at storing large amounts of fat is witnessed in obese individuals. In contrast, white fat adipocytes store lipids as a single large drop and are metabolically less active. The brown adipocytes store lipids as many droplets, and have high metabolic activity. There are two basic types of adipocytes: white and brown. Chondroblasts and osteoblasts are the primary specialized cell type located in cartilage and bone, respectively.Īdipocytes are cells that store lipids as droplets that fill most of the cytoplasm.

Polysaccharides and proteins secreted by fibroblasts combine with extra-cellular fluids to produce a viscous ground substance that, with embedded fibrous proteins and cells, forms the extra-cellular matrix. The most abundant cell in connective tissue proper is the fibroblast. The cells can be found in both an active form (suffix – blast), where they are dividing and secreting the components of ground substance, and an in-active form (suffix – cyte). The amount and structure of each component correlates with the function of the tissue, from the rigid ground substance in bones supporting the body to the inclusion of specialized cells for example, a phagocytic cell that engulfs pathogens and also rids tissue of cellular debris.Įach class of connective tissue is formed by fundamental cell types. This ground substance is usually a fluid, but it can also be mineralized and solid, as in bones. The major component of the matrix is ground substance. The matrix plays a major role in the functioning of this tissue. Unlike epithelial tissue, which is composed of cells closely packed together, cells of connective tissue are more widely dispersed within an extracellular matrix (ECM). This tissue is no longer present after birth, leaving only scattered mesenchymal cells throughout the body.Ĭonnective tissues come in a vast variety of forms, yet they typically have in common three characteristic components: cells, large amounts of amorphous ground substance, and protein fibers. A second type of embryonic connective tissue forms in the umbilical cord, called mucous connective tissue or Wharton’s jelly. Clusters of mesenchymal cells are scattered throughout adult tissue and supply the cells needed for replacement and repair after a connective tissue injury. The first connective tissue to develop in the embryo is mesenchyme, the stem cell line from which all connective tissues are later derived. Adipose cells store surplus energy in the form of fat and contribute to the thermal insulation of the body.Īll connective tissues derive from the mesodermal layer of the embryo (see Figure 4.2.2). Transport of gases, nutrients, waste, and chemical messengers is ensured by specialized fluid connective tissues, such as blood and lymph. Specialized cells in connective tissue defend the body from microorganisms that enter the body. Protection is another major function of connective tissue, in the form of fibrous capsules and bones that protect delicate organs.

Describe how the structural properties of connective tissue relate to the unique functions of the tissueĬonnective tissues perform many functions in the body, most importantly, they support and connect other tissues: from the connective tissue sheath that surrounds a muscle, to the tendons that attach muscles to bones, and to the skeleton that supports the positions of the body.Describe the common structural elements of connective tissue.

Identify and distinguish between the different type of connective tissue: proper, supportive, and fluid – and associate each with their function and location.Describe the structural characteristics of the various connective tissues and how these characteristics enable their functions.īy the end of this section, you will be able to:

Definition of viscosity of connective tissue