Connective Tissue

Structure of Components

 Connective tissue is composed of cells

and their secreted ECM (fibrous
proteins, ground substance, and fluid).
The combination and ratio of each
determines the function & role of
various connective tissues.

Cells

Fibers

Ground substance (gel-like

substance)
1. proteoglycans - composed of a protein core
covalently bound to glycosaminoglycans (GAG)
- negatively-charged GAGs attract cations,
which then draws in water (hydrating the
ground substance)
2. hyaluronic acid, a GAG, attaches to the core
via linker proteins
3. glycoproteins - includes fibronectin & laminin