Connective tissue Most abundant tissue by weight Cells are farther apart than in epithelium Predominant cells are fibroblasts Much intercellular material (matrix) Functions in binding structures together, filling spaces, providing support, protection, and production of blood cells

Loose connective Tissue (Areolar) Binds skin to underlying organs Fills spaces between muscles Lies beneath epithelium to nourish those cells

Adipose tissue (Fat) Specialized loose connective tissue Found beneath skin, between muscles, around organs, around joints Acts as a protective cushion, insulator and storer of fat molecules

Fibrous (Dense) Connective Tissue Dense, closely packed collagen and elastic fibers Fewer cells Strong Poor blood supply Slow to repair Forms tendons & ligaments Also found in the white of the eye & deeper dermis of the skin

Cartilage Matrix of collagen fibers Cartilage cells (chondrocytes) found in chambers (lacunae) Enclosed in a fibrous connective tissue covering (perichondrium) Only blood supply is in the perichondrium

3 types

A. Hyaline cartilage Most common Found on ends of bones in joints, nose, rings of the trachea & bronchi

B. Elastic cartilage More flexible Found in the external part of the ear & part of the larynx

C. Fibrocartilage Tough Shock absorber Found between vertebral disks, between bones in knee & pelvic bones

                              

Bone Most rigid tissue due to collagen fibers and mineral salts in the matrix Bone cells (osteocytes) found in chambers (lacunae) Blood vessels found in canals throughout Protects, supports, serves as an attachment for muscles, forms blood cells

Blood Matrix is plasma Red blood cells, white blood cells, & platelets Transports nutrients, gases, wastes