
Tissues
Tissues are groups of cells organized for specific functions. The four tissue types differ in composition and appearance, reflecting their various functions. Epithelium, muscle and nervous tissues are composed mostly of closely packed cells with little extracellular material. Although possessing cells, connective tissue is unique in its abundant extracellular components. 1000x, 1000x, 600x, 1000x

Epithelium >
Epithelia are characterized by an abundance of cells and little extracellular matrix. Epithelia line all internal and external body surfaces and can be modified to form glands. Individual surface epithelial cells are bound together by junctions that isolate the surface space from the intercellular space, thus providing integrity to the epithelial layer.

- Free surface
Epithelia are characterized by an abundance of cells and little extracellular matrix. Epithelia line all internal and external body surfaces and can be modified to form glands. Individual surface epithelial cells are bound together by junctions that isolate the surface space from the intercellular space, thus providing integrity to the epithelial layer.

- Lining epithelia
Epithelia are characterized by an abundance of cells and little extracellular matrix. Epithelia line all internal and external body surfaces and can be modified to form glands. Individual surface epithelial cells are bound together by junctions that isolate the surface space from the intercellular space, thus providing integrity to the epithelial layer.

- Gland cell
Epithelia are characterized by an abundance of cells and little extracellular matrix. Epithelia line all internal and external body surfaces and can be modified to form glands. Individual surface epithelial cells are bound together by junctions that isolate the surface space from the intercellular space, thus providing integrity to the epithelial layer.

- Basement membrane
Epithelia are characterized by an abundance of cells and little extracellular matrix. Epithelia line all internal and external body surfaces and can be modified to form glands. Individual surface epithelial cells are bound together by junctions that isolate the surface space from the intercellular space, thus providing integrity to the epithelial layer.

Connective tissue >
Connective tissue is the tissue possessing both cells and an abundant extracellular matrix. The matrix, imparting unique functions to this tissue, is composed of ground substance (with the consistency of a liquid, a gel or a flexible rubber) and fibers (providing a framework and strength). Major connective tissue types include blood, connective tissue proper, cartilage and bone.

- Cells
Connective tissue is the tissue possessing both cells and an abundant extracellular matrix. The matrix, imparting unique functions to this tissue, is composed of ground substance (with the consistency of a liquid, a gel or a flexible rubber) and fibers (providing a framework and strength). Major connective tissue types include blood, connective tissue proper, cartilage and bone.

- Fibers
Connective tissue is the tissue possessing both cells and an abundant extracellular matrix. The matrix, imparting unique functions to this tissue, is composed of ground substance (with the consistency of a liquid, a gel or a flexible rubber) and fibers (providing a framework and strength). Major connective tissue types include blood, connective tissue proper, cartilage and bone.

- Ground substance
Connective tissue is the tissue possessing both cells and an abundant extracellular matrix. The matrix, imparting unique functions to this tissue, is composed of ground substance (with the consistency of a liquid, a gel or a flexible rubber) and fibers (providing a framework and strength). Major connective tissue types include blood, connective tissue proper, cartilage and bone.