Areolar connective tissue

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Types of connective tissue

Areolar connective tissue (or loose connective tissue) is the most widely distributed connective tissue type in vertebrates.

1 Location
2 Composition
3 Function
4 Classification
5 Additional images
6 External links

[edit] Location

It can be found in the skin as well as in places that connect epithelium to other tissues.

The areolar tissue is found beneath the dermis layer and is also underneath the epithelial tissue of all the body systems that have external openings.

It is also a component of mucus membranes found in the digestive, respiratory, reproductive, and urinary systems.

It also surrounds the blood vessels and nerves.

[edit] Composition

It is a pliable, mesh-like tissue with a fluid matrix and functions to cushion and protect body organs.

Cells called fibroblasts are widely dispered in this tissue; they are irregular branching cells that secrete strong fibrous proteins and proteoglycans as an extracellular matrix.

The cells of this type of tissue are generally separated by quite some distance by a gel-like gelatinous substance primarily made up of collagenous and elastic fibers

[edit] Function

It acts as a packaging tissue holding the internal organs together and in correct placement.

It holds organs in place and attaches epithelial tissue to other underlying tissues.

[edit] Classification

Loose connective tissue is named based on the "weave" and type of its constituent fibers. There are three main types:

Collagenous fibers: collagenous fibers are made of collagen and consist of bundles of fibrils that are coils of collagen molecules.
Elastic fibers: elastic fibers are made of elastin and are "stretchable."
Reticular fibers: reticular fibers consist of one or more types of very thin collagen fibers. They join connective tissues to other tissues.