Question

What is the function of the areolar connective tissue?

Answer 1

Functions of areolar connective tissue:

1. Areolar connective tissue, also known as loose connective tissue is made up of two components: specialized cells called fibroblasts and a jelly-like extracellular matrix made of gelatin.
2. The fibroblasts secrete two types of fibers, collagen fibers, and elastic fibers. Collagen fibers give strength and elastic fibers can stretch and recoil.
3. It is mostly found underneath epithelial tissues and provides a site of attachment for epithelial tissues to connect with deeper tissues. This keeps the organs in their proper place.
4. The epithelial cells are avascular and need the nutrients by the process of diffusion from underlying tissues. The gelatinous ECM of areolar tissue helps to supply nutrients and remove waste products to and from the epithelial cells by the process of diffusion.