Characteristics of Tissues

Tissues are made up of similar types of cells organised together to perform a certain function.
There are four primary types of tissues: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.
Epithelial tissue covers the body surface and lines its cavities. Its roles include protection, absorption, filtration, and secretion.
Connective tissue binds and supports other tissues of the body. It has various types including blood, bone, adipose tissue, and loose connective tissue.
Muscle tissue - this comes in three forms: skeletal (voluntary) muscle, cardiac muscle, and smooth (involuntary) muscle. It facilitates movement by contracting in response to nerve stimulation.
Nervous tissue includes neurons (nerve cells) and neuroglia (supportive cells). It is responsible for coordinating and controlling many body activities.
Tissues can have various shapes, sizes, and structures depending on their function.
Tissues contribute to the organs’ composition, and several organs working together form organ systems.
Tissue regeneration is the process where the tissue is renewed or repaired. It can happen naturally or can be induced through medical treatment in case of injury, illness, or ageing.
Tissues must receive nutrients to survive and function. These come from the blood, which delivers nutrients and oxygen to cells and removes waste products.
Understanding the cellular and architectural characteristics of tissues underpins the broader understanding of human physiology and pathology.
Disease or damage to tissues can lead to disorders or illnesses. For instance, tumours form when cells in tissues grow uncontrollably.
Histology is the study of tissues under a microscope, which helps to identify any abnormalities in cells.