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AAT Bioquest

What are the different roles that connective tissue plays?

Posted December 22, 2023


Answer

Collectively, connective tissue is involved in various body functions in the body. Such functions include supporting cells and organs, protecting against infections, carrying nutrients and waste, aiding in tissue repair, and storing fat. The most important function of connective tissue is to support and connect different tissues. The support includes connective tissues sheaths around muscle to the skeletal system which maintains body structure. Protection is another vital function. Fibrous capsules and bones shield delicate organs as well as the skeletal system. Specialized cells in these tissues also defend against invading microorganisms. Additionally, specialized fluid connective tissues like blood and lymph transport fluids, waste, nutrients and chemical signals throughout the body. Moreover, adipose cells store extra energy as fat and help insulate the body.  

Additional resources

The Role of Connective Tissue

Cell Structures and Organelles

Cell Meter™ Fixed Cell and Tissue TUNEL Apoptosis Assay Kit *Blue Fluorescence*