Connective Tissue

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Connective Tissue

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Connective Tissue

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Connective Tissue

Bone contains specialized cells called Osteocyte s embedded in a mineralized extracellular matrix, and functions for general support.

Blood functions in transport. Its Extracellular Matrix is the Blood Plasma , which transports dissolved Nutrient s, Hormone s, and Carbon Dioxide in the form of Bicarbonate . The main cellular component is Red Blood Cell s.

Cartilage makes up virtually the entire skeleton in the Osteichthyes . In most other Vertebrate s, it is found primarily in Joint s, where it provides cushioning. The extracellular matrix of cartilage is composed primarily of Collagen .

Connective Tissue Proper

--- Dense Connective Tissue or Fibrous Connective Tissue forms Ligament s and Tendon s. Its densely packed collagen fibers have great tensile strength.

--- Loose Connective Tissue or Areolar Connective Tissue holds organs and epithelia in place, and has a variety of Protein aceous fibers, including Collagen and Elastin . It is also important in inflammation.

--- Reticular Connective Tissue is a network of reticular fibers (fine Collagen ) that form a soft skeleton to support the lymphoid organs ( Lymph Nodes , Bone Marrow , and Spleen .)

--- Adipose Tissue contains Adipocyte s, used for cushioning, Insulation , Lubrication (primarily in the Pericardium ) and Energy storage.

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DISORDERS OF CONNECTIVE TISSUE

Various connective tissue conditions have been described, these can be both inherited and environmental.

Marfan Syndrome - a genetic disease causing abnormal Fibrillin .

Scurvy - caused by a dietary deficiency in Vitamin C , leading to abnormal Collagen .

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome - a genetic disease causing progressive deterioration of collagens, with different EDS types affecting different sites in the body, such as joints, heart valves, organ walls, arterial walls, etc.

Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bone disease) - caused by insufficient production of good quality collagen to produce healthy, strong bones.

Spontaneous Pneumothorax - collapsed lung, believed to be related to subtle abnormalities in connective tissue.

''See also'': Zootomy