Knowra Connective tissue cells Connective tissue cells Connective tissue cells produce and maintain extracellular matrix, store energy, or provide immune defense. They include resident cells and mobile immune cells.
Fibroblast : A connective tissue cell that synthesizes and remodels extracellular matrix, including collagen and ground substance. Fibroblasts are the principal matrix-producing cells in many connective tissues.
Extracellular matrix : The network of proteins and other molecules outside cells that provides structural and biochemical support to tissues. Connective tissue cells construct, modify, and respond to this surrounding material.
Fibrosis : Excessive deposition of connective tissue that can impair an organ's structure and function. Overactive matrix-producing cells drive the scarring that defines fibrosis.
Epithelial cell : A cell that forms sheets lining body surfaces, cavities, and glands. Unlike connective tissue cells, epithelial cells are typically joined in continuous, polarized layers.
Adipocyte : A cell specialized for storing energy as lipid and releasing signaling molecules. Adipocytes make connective tissue a site of energy storage and metabolic signaling.
Collagen : A family of structural proteins that forms fibers and networks in the extracellular matrix. Fibroblasts synthesize collagen, the matrix protein that gives many connective tissues tensile strength.
Keloid : A raised scar that grows beyond the boundaries of the original skin wound. Keloids illustrate excessive connective-tissue cell activity during wound repair.
Endothelial cell : A cell that lines blood and lymphatic vessels. Endothelial cells form vessel linings rather than the diverse stromal populations around them.
Macrophage : A phagocytic immune cell that engulfs microbes, dead cells, and debris and coordinates inflammation. Macrophages patrol connective tissues and clear material that threatens or damages them.
Matrix metalloproteinase : An enzyme that degrades components of the extracellular matrix. These enzymes let connective tissue cells remodel matrix during repair and normal turnover.
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