Anatomy and Physiology
Tissues (Introduction)
A tissue is a group of cells that:
has similar characteristics
performs related functions
Tissues in the human body are divided into four basic categories:
Epithelial tissue (also known as the epithelium):
-This tissue comprises the coverings and linings of the body.
-Epithelial tissue is found on body surfaces and in body cavities.
-Epithelial tissue often plays a role in nutrient absorption.
Connective Tissue:
- Examples of connective tissue include bone, cartilage, blood, and adipose.
- Connective tissues provide support to the body. They are also used to store and transport materials.
Muscle Tissues:
- Muscle tissues are used for all sorts of movements in the body. This can be a movement of the body itself, or a movement within the body (pumping blood, sending food through the gastrointestinal tract, etc.)
- Muscle cells provide movements by contracting.
Nervous Tissue:
- Nervous tissues receive and transmit signals. They also direct movements that occur at the conscious and the unconscious levels.