Areolar

Reticular

Dense (Regular)

Adipose

Elastic

In the watery matrix (ground substance) observe the nuclei of fibroblasts (A), collagen fibers (B) and elastic fibers (C).

Locations: beneath the skin and around blood vessels, muscles and nerves

Functions: binds one tissue to another (as skin connects to muscle), protection and nourishment to the organs and structures it binds, and stores "body fluid"

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The micrograph above is at very low magnification. To the left, at a much higher magnification, the fibroblasts (A) are more clearly observed between the parallel collagenous fibers (B).

Locations: tendons and ligaments
Functions: strong flexible support

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This section of aorta shows a tremendous number of elastic fibers (A). The fibroblasts are not visible. The light pink in this tissue is smooth muscle.

Location: large arteries, bronchial tubes
Function: Elastic fibers can stretch l 1/2 times their length and then recoil. These fibers will provide elasticity to tissues.

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Observe that the reticular fibers (A) form a network or lattice in this spleen tissue. Do not confuse this tissue with the elastic connective tissue seen above which has fibers that are parallel.

Locations: spleen, lymph nodes, liver

Function: gives support to soft organs

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Above observe adipose at a low magnification. The cells appear empty. At the left observe that the nuclus (A) is pushed to the side of the cell giving the cell the appearance of a signet ring. Cells are filled with fat globules (B).

Locations/functions:
-- Anywhere there is an empty space in the body fat is stored as a source of energy and may provide insulation.
--The kidneys are correctly positioned and cushioned by adipose tissue.
--The eye is cushioned in the orbit by adipose.

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