Overview
This lecture covers the structure and characteristics of adipose tissue, focusing on adipocytes, their nuclei, and the tissue's matrix and fibers.
Adipose Tissue Structure
- Adipose tissue is mostly made up of individual adipocytes (fat cells).
- At 100X magnification, the field of view is filled with adipocytes.
- Each adipocyte appears as a rounded or spherical cell in the tissue.
- The nuclei of adipocytes are pushed to the side of the cell due to fat storage in the center.
- The fat stored inside each adipocyte pushes internal structures, especially the nucleus, to the cell's edge.
Connective Tissue Characteristics
- Adipose is classified as a type of connective tissue.
- A matrix exists between adipocytes, visible as small spaces between the cells.
- The matrix in adipose tissue contains fibers, although they are not prominent under the microscope.
- Compared to other connective tissues, adipose has less visible matrix.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Adipocyte — a fat cell found in adipose tissue, typically round with a nucleus pushed to the edge.
- Adipose tissue — a type of connective tissue primarily composed of adipocytes that stores fat.
- Matrix — the material or space between cells in connective tissue, containing fibers.
- Nucleus — the organelle within a cell that contains genetic material; in adipocytes, it is displaced to the cell’s edge.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the structure and function of connective tissue types.
- Identify adipocytes, nuclei, matrix, and fibers in prepared microscope slides.