Tissues are groups of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function in the body. In the human body, tissues are classified into four main types:
-
Epithelial Tissue: This type covers body surfaces, lines cavities and organs, and forms glands. Epithelial tissue is involved in protection, absorption, secretion, and sensation.
-
Connective Tissue: This type provides support, binds other tissues together, and stores energy. Connective tissue includes bone, blood, fat, cartilage, and ligaments, among other forms.
-
Muscle Tissue: This type is responsible for movement. There are three types of muscle tissue: skeletal (voluntary movement), cardiac (involuntary movement of the heart), and smooth (involuntary movements in organs).
-
Nervous Tissue: This type is involved in the transmission of signals throughout the body. Nervous tissue is composed of neurons (nerve cells) and glial cells (support cells).
Together, these tissue types form the organs and systems that carry out the body's functions.