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| Connective Tissue |
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| It is another highly specialised animal tissue. It is a derivative of mesoderm. The specialisation in connective tissue is for various specific functions. Following are some of the functions of connective tissue: |
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 It connects and binds various other tissues and organs. |
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 It forms a protective covering around almost all-visceral organs. |
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 It forms a packing tissue, filling the unused spaces in the body. |
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 It forms a bedding substance inside various organs, in which the functional units are enclosed. |
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 It plays an important role in the transport mechanism in the body. |
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 Some connective tissue cells produce a substance called heparin, which prevents clotting of blood inside the body. |
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 Some connective tissue cells are capable of ingesting disease producing germs by phagocytosis. |
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 Some connective tissue cells play an important role in thermoregulation. |
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| fig 5.60 Different Types of Cells in the Connective Tissue |
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 Presence of very few cells, which are loosely, arranged with prominent intercellular spaces. |
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 Presence of a ground substance called matrix secreted by the cells. |
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 Presence of supporting structures in the matrix called fibres. Usually the fibres are of two types white fibres made up of a protein called collagen and yellow fibres made up of a protein called elastin. |
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| Connective tissue is classified into the following major types based on the nature of matrix. |
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 Connective tissue proper where, matrix is soft and homogeneous. Fibres are present. |
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 Supporting tissue where, matrix is hard and rigid. Fibres may be present or absent. |
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 Fluid connective tissue where, matrix is in the liquid form. Fibres are absent. |
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