BIOL 1215 Lecture Notes - Loose Connective Tissue, Reticular Connective Tissue, Elastic Fiber
Document Summary
Fibers and the classification of connective tissues: elastic fibers- branch and join together to form a network within tissue, are smaller than collagen fibers. Elastic fibers consist of molecules of protein elastin surrounded by a glycoprotein named fibrillin, which adds strength and stability. Because of unique molecular structure, elastic fibers are strong but can be stretched. They have the ability to return to original shape after being stretched, a property called elasticity. Produced by fibroblast, reticular fibers are thinner than collagen fibers and form branching networks. Reticular fibers are plentiful in reticular connective tissue, which form stroma (bed or covering) or supporting framework of many soft organs, and help for basement membrane. 2 major subclasses of connective tissue: embryonic connective tissue, mesenchyme, mucous connective tissue, mature connective tissue, loose connective tissue, areolar connective tissue, adipose tissue, reticular connective tissue, dense connective tissue. Elastic cartilage: bone tissue, liquid connective tissue.
