Synopsis On Tissues

Cells are a crucial part of the body’s structure, forming tissues when clustered together and performing the same functions. Histology is the study of tissues and contributes to the larger field of anatomy by providing a structural basis for understanding the physiology of organs.

Primarily, there are four types of tissues that form the fabric of the body:

  • Epithelial tissue - provides covering
  • Connective tissues - renders support
  • Nervous tissues - Responsible for control
  • Muscle tissues - enabling movement

Let us take a look at each one briefly:

Types of Tissues

Epithelial Tissue

Epithelium, also known as epithelial tissue, is a type of tissue that lines the cavities and surfaces of the body. It can be found in the body as a lining of the internal and external surfaces.

Glandular Epithelium – Patterns the Glands

The outer layer of the skin, as well as the open cavities of the respiratory, digestive, and cardiovascular systems, is composed of a lining and covering epithelium which serves to protect the organs and walls of the closed ventral body cavity.

The epidermis is an example of epithelium, which generally forms a barrier between different structures. Most particles must pass through this type of tissue in order to access the structures it is protecting. For instance, the epidermis lines the urinary bladder, separating the cells underneath the bladder wall from the urine.

The epithelial tissue accomplishes the following functions:

Protection

Absorption

Excretion

Sensory Reception

Secretion

The skin acts as a barrier, protecting underlying tissues from invasion by foreign particles, chemicals, and mechanical injury. It also contains nerve endings that are sensitive to stimuli applied to its surface.

The distinguishing characteristics of epithelial tissue are:

  • Avascular
  • Composed of cells closely packed together
  • Has a free surface
  • Has a basement membrane
  • Regenerates quickly

Have Specialized Connections

Property of Polarity

Supported by connective tissue

Avascular, Innervated

Property of Regeneration

Connective Tissue

The primary tissue found almost everywhere in the body is widely distributed, but the amount of it in different structures varies. Its role is involvement in…

Protection

Support and Binding

Provide insulation

Transporting Substances in the Body

The cartilage and bones provide protection and support to the organs of the body, forming the hard underpinnings of the skeleton. Additionally, fat-cushions protect and insulate the organs of the body, as well as providing reserve energy fuel.

The classification of Connective Tissue Types is shown below:

Connective Tissue

Connective Tissue Proper

Loose Connective Tissue

Areolar

Adipose

Reticular

Dense Connective Tissue

Regular

Irregular

Elastic

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