Classification of tissue

In a multicellular living being, work is divided among uniquely differentiated cells. Each of the 60 billion cells in the human body exhibits a typical form, which is determined by the function of the particular complex of cells where the cell is located. This indicates a universal characteristic of living cells, namely to react flexibly to particular functional requirements. In the human body, a large number of different cells with differing functions can be identified.

Organic tissue is made up of a complex of cells that are differentiated in the same way and form the building blocks of the whole body; they have the same or similar functional tasks or responsibility for partial functions. Depending on their specific functions, four types of tissue or matrix can be distinguished. In the organs and organ systems, different tissues are always mixed up together to form one functional unit.

The four matrices are:

• Epithelial tissue or covering tissue refers to closed colonies of cells that cover external and internal surfaces.
• Connective or supporting tissue is a fibrous or tendinous tissue that joins together tissues and organs of the body. This includes fatty tissue, which acts as a fuel store, padding, and heat protection. Supporting tissues are cartilage and bone in the passive locomotor system. Supporting tissues give groups of tissues elasticity and stability while at the same time helping to protect the internal organs.
• Muscle tissue makes up the active locomotor system or allows body cavities to contract, eg, the heart, blood vessels, and digestive tract.
• Nerve tissue has the task of receiving, transmitting, and processing stimuli. It is part of the body's control system.