Overview: Connective Tissue
- Connective tissue is tissue in which cells are embedded in extracellular matrix rather than packed tightly together like epithelial cells.
- Extracellular matrix (ECM) is the noncellular material around connective-tissue cells, and it contains ground substance plus fibers.
- Ground substance is the gel-like part of extracellular matrix that fills spaces around connective-tissue cells and fibers.
- Fibers are protein strands in extracellular matrix that give connective tissue strength, elasticity, or structural scaffolding.
- Embedded cells are cells surrounded by matrix, which is why connective tissue often looks more spread out than epithelium.
- Organ support is a major connective-tissue function because connective tissue forms frameworks, capsules, coverings, and spaces around organs.
- Cell support occurs when connective tissue physically surrounds cells and helps hold them in proper tissue locations.
- Nutrient exchange depends on connective tissue because many substances move between blood vessels and tissue cells through extracellular matrix.
- Waste exchange means metabolic waste can move from tissue cells through connective tissue toward blood for removal.
- Microorganism protection occurs because connective tissue contains immune cells and matrix barriers that help slow or respond to invasion.
- Tissue repair depends on connective-tissue cells that produce matrix, close wounds, and rebuild damaged support structures.
- Fat storage is a connective-tissue function carried out by adipose tissue.
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