Connective Tissue

Connective Tissue

Connective tissue is a biological tissue that is important in supporting, connecting or separating different types of tissues and organs in the body. All connective tissue is made up of cells, fibres (such as collagen) and extracellular matrix. There are different types of connective tissues with different functions. The following table lists the different types of connective tissue.

Connective tissue type	Structure	Function	Location	Diagram/Photo
Areolar (loose connective)	jelly matrix; has network of elastic fibres which attach together	holds the organs in place, cushions and protects organs (acts as a packing material)	surrounds blood vessels and nerves ad found in the mesentry which surrounds the intestine	Loose connective tissue.
White fibrous	consists of non-elastic fibres	acts as a shock absorber, transfers or absorbs forces	in tendons, ligaments and many tough membrane sheaths that surround organs	White fibrous tissue.
Cartilage	rubbery matrix, can be flexible or rigid	gives structure, shape and strength; reduces friction; provides support	joints, nose, sternum, trachea	Cartilage.
Bone tissue	made up of collagen fibres; mineralised with calcium and phosphates to make it solid	provides strength and support; creates red blood cells and white blood cells;	bones found all over the body	Osteoclast, a type of bone tissue.