Connective Tissue

Connective Tissue

1. General Features of Connective Tissue

   • Two basic elements: Extracellular marix and cells
     • Extracellular matrix is the material located between its widely spaced cells. The extracellular matrix consists of protein fibers and ground substance, the material between the cells and the fibers

2. It binds together, supports, and strengths other body tissues; protects and insulates internal organs; compartmentalizes structures such as skeletal muscles; serves as the major transport system with the body (blood, a fluid connective tissue); is the primary location of stored energy reserves (adipose, or fat, tissue); and is the main source of immune responses