Connective Tissue Structure and Function

gel-like matrix with loosely arranged fibroblasts

binds organs, holds tissue fluids

Beneath the skin, between muscles.

large fat droplet with nucleus off to the side

protects, insulates, stores fat

beneath skin, around kidneys, behind eyeballs, on surface of heart, areas in need of cushioning

Rigid and hard due to mineral deposits, flexible due to collagen

support and protection to organs, facilitate movement

Glassy-appearing matrix; irregularly arranged chondrocytes(look like eyeballs)

supports and reinforces; serves as resilient cushion; resists compressive stress

forms most of the embryonic skeleton; covers the ends of long bones in joint cavities; forms costal cartilages of the ribs; cartilages of the nose, trachea, and larynx

very tightly packed elastic fibers and chondrocytes embedded in ground substance, flexible

supports, protects, provides flexible framework

external ear, epiglottis

numerous parallel collagen fibers; large chondrocytes