Describe the three main components of theextracellular matrix of connective tissue.
Describe the three main components of the
extracellular matrix of connective tissue.
Connective tissue is mesodermally derived, and it contributes 30 percent in the dry weight. It is the most widely distributed and abundant most animal tissue in the human body. The composition of connective tissue includes the matrix, cells and proteinaceous fibres.
1) Matrix is the ground substance of the connective tissue. It comprises of organic matter and inorganic matter. Organic matter includes mucopolysaccharides and glycoproteins. The abundant most polysaccharide is hyaluronic acid. Inorganic matter comprises salts.
The primary function of the matrix is to hold the cells and fibres of the connective tissue. It determines the physical and chemical properties of the connective tissue.
2) The cells of the Connective tissue includes fibroblasts cells which produce fibres and matrix of the tissue, Macrophages to engulf and destroy the foreign substances especially pathogens, Mast cells secrete histamine, plasma cells produce antibodies, mesenchymal cells produce all the types of cells and adipocytes. Adipocytes are the fat-storing cells.
3) Fibres can be white, yellow or reticular type. The white fibres are made of collagen protein, and the yellow fibres are made of elastin protein.
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