Connective Tissue

Unlike the closely packed, uniform cells of
epithelial tissues, the varied cells of C.T. are
widely spaced within an intercellular matrix
which determines the characteristic and
function of each specific C.T.
Connective Tissue Intercellular Matrix
Components:

1.
1.
2.
Fibers
Collagen – tough, white fibers of
collagen protein
Elastin – yellowish, elastic fibers
Reticular – thin delicate fibers
Connective Tissue Intercellular Matrix
Components:
 Ground
Substance
A semisolid gel containing water,
glycoproteins, and other substances
that are specific to particular C.T.
types
Cells of Connective Tissue

Connective Tissues have a variety of cell types:
1.
Mesenchymal cells- C.T. stem cells
Fibroblasts- immature C.T. cells that form the matrix
Fibrocytes- mature fibroblasts that no longer form matrix
Macrophages- phagocytic cells (neutrophils)
Mast Cells- secrete histamine and heparin for inflammatory
response
Plasma Cells- lymphocytes that secrete antibodies and can move
into connective tissues from the circulation
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Composition of Blood

Formed Elements = 45% of Blood Volume
1.
Erythrocytes – red blood cells
Leukocytes – white blood cells
Thrombocytes - platelets
2.
3.

Plasma – blood’s liquid portion
1.
Water – 91%
Protein – albumin, fibrinogens, globulins
Other solutes – nutrients, waste, gasses, electrolytes,
hormones, steroids
2.
3.
Inflammatory Response
Inflammatory Response | Khan Academy

Click the Link Above to watch a lecture on
the inflammatory response (15 minutes)