Connective Tissue

Connective Tissue Provides structure, support, and protection Loosely packed, contains more Extracellular Matrix

Fibroblasts Most common type of fixed cell in connective tissue Produce fibers by secreting proteins into connective tissue

Areolar Tissue Thin membranes formed throughout the body. Fills spaces between muscles. It’s blood vessels nourish other cells

Adipose Tissue Fat Tissue that cushions joints and organs. Also insulates skin and stores energy

Dense Connective Tissue Tightly packed, fibrous tissue. Tendons and Ligaments, connect bone to muscle or bone to bone

Cartilage Rigid connective tissue that provides support, framework, and attachments

Elastic Cartilage Dense elastic fibers that provide framework and external parts. More flexible than cartilage

Fibrocartilage Tough tissue used for shock absorbing Spinal column, knees and pelvic

Osteocyte Most rigid bone connective tissue used for body structure and support

Blood Tissue Transports a variety of materials throughout the body Helps maintain stable internal environment

Skeletal Muscle Tissue Found in muscles that attach to bone. Allows for voluntary muscle movement

Smooth Muscle Tissue Shorter than skeletal muscle tissue Lining of stomach, intestine, bladder, uterus, blood vessels Cannot contract voluntarily

Cardiac Muscle Only found in the heart, branched and interconnected Controlled involuntarily

Nervous Cells Found in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves Respond by transmitting nerve impulses along Axons and Dendrites