Overview
This lecture covers the basics of connective tissue, its characteristics, and the different types of cartilage, as well as introduces ligaments and tendons.
Four Major Tissue Types
- All body tissues are either epithelial (linings), connective (tendons, ligaments, fat, blood), muscle (contracts for movement), or nervous (sends electrical signals).
Characteristics of Connective Tissue
- Connective tissue has few cells, abundant non-cellular matrix, and usually limited blood supply.
- The matrix includes fibers (mainly collagen) and ground substance (like glycoproteins or calcium salts).
- Glycoproteins in the ground substance attract water to connective tissue, helping with hydration and resilience.
- As we age, breakdown of glycoproteins weakens connective tissue.
Types of Cartilage (All Connective Tissue)
- Hyaline cartilage: Most common; smooth and glassy; found at the ends of bones (articular cartilage), trachea, larynx, nose, and costal (rib) cartilage.
- Fibrocartilage: Strongest, least flexible; found in knee menisci, intervertebral discs, and pubic symphysis; resists compression and absorbs shock.
- Elastic cartilage: Most flexible; found in the ear and epiglottis (flap that prevents choking).
Ligaments and Tendons (Introduced)
- Ligaments connect bone to bone and are composed of strong collagen fibers.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Connective tissue â Tissue with sparse cells and abundant matrix, providing support and structure.
- Matrix â Non-cellular part of connective tissue, made of fibers and ground substance.
- Collagen fibers â Strong protein fibers in connective tissue.
- Glycoproteins â Proteins with sugar groups, important for tissue hydration.
- Hyaline cartilage â Smooth cartilage at bone ends and in the respiratory tract.
- Fibrocartilage â Tough cartilage in menisci, discs, and pubic symphysis.
- Elastic cartilage â Flexible cartilage in the ear and epiglottis.
- Ligament â Connects bone to bone.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the locations and functions of each type of cartilage.
- Be prepared to identify major connective tissues and their defining features.