2 Tissues of the Human Body Free Online FlashCards

What is a tissue?

A tissue is an organized group of cells and surrounding material that works together to perform particular functions.

How are the surfaces of most epithelial cells arranged?

Most epithelial cells have an exposed apical surface and an attached basal surface anchored to a basement membrane.

How do collagen and elastic fibers differ?

Collagen fibers resist pulling forces, while elastic fibers stretch and recoil.

What are the main roles of skeletal muscle?

Skeletal muscle usually acts voluntarily and moves the skeleton, maintains posture, and produces heat.

How do dendrites and an axon differ in a neuron?

Dendrites usually receive input, while an axon carries signals away from the neuron’s cell body.

What are common signs of inflammation, and what happens to local blood vessels?

Inflammation commonly causes redness, heat, swelling, and pain; loss of function may also occur. Blood vessels widen and become more permeable, letting fluid and immune cells enter the area.

What does histology study?

Histology is the study of tissue structure under a microscope.

How do epithelial tissues usually receive nutrients?

Epithelia are usually avascular, so nutrients diffuse to them from underlying tissues.

Why can pseudostratified epithelium look multilayered?

Pseudostratified epithelium is a single layer that appears multilayered because its cells vary in height.

What makes transitional epithelium suited to the urinary bladder?

Transitional epithelium changes cell shape as it stretches; it lines the urinary bladder.

How do exocrine and endocrine glands differ in secretion?

Exocrine glands release products through ducts onto a surface or into a passageway; endocrine glands release hormones into surrounding fluid and blood.

What do fibroblasts produce in connective tissue?

Fibroblasts produce much of the extracellular matrix and its fibers.