Properties of Connective Tissue
Connective tissue is highly vascular
Connective tissue is highly innervated
Connective tissue usually does not occur on body surfaces
Functions of Connective Tissue
It binds together, supports, and strengthens other body tissues; protects and insulates internal organs; compartmentalizes structures such as skeletal muscles; serves as the major transport system within the body (blood, a fluid connective tissue); is the primary location of stored energy reserves (adipose, or fat, tissue); is the main source of immune responses.
Types of Connective Tissue
1. Embryonic connective tissue
Embryonic connective tissue is present primarily in the embryo from fertilization through the first two months of pregnancy, and in the fetus from the third month to birth. a) Mesenchyme: the precursor to all types of connective tissue composed of irregularly shaped cells, a semifluid ground substance and delicate reticular fibres. b) Mucous (Wharton's jelly): found mainly in the umbilical cord of the fetus. This is a modified form of mesenchyme and contains fibroblasts, a more viscous jelly-like ground substance, and collagen fibres.
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