Introduction

Connective Tissue is one of the four basic tissue types. It fills the spaces between organs and tissues, and provides them with structural and metabolic support.

After following this topic you should know about the basic structure and function of connective tissue, and its components (cells, fibres, ground substance).

Objectives

By the time you have finished this topic you should be able to:

1. Describe the basic components of connective tissue.
2. Summarise the main similarities and differences between the two main types of fibres found in connective tissue - collagen and elastin.
3. Describe the six main cell types found in connective tissue.
4. Describe what is meant by a basement membrane, and discuss its components.
5. Summarise the main similarities and differences between different types of connective tissue.