Page 20 - Chapter 3: Cells and Tissues

c. Fibers
Protein fibers are found in the matrix of most connective
tissue.
i. Collagen.-Fibers are strong and flexible but not easily
stretched.
Injections of collagen have been used cosmetically to remove
unwanted lines and wrinkles.

ii. Elastin fibers are not very strong, but they are stretchy, like
a rubber band.

iii. Reticular-Is a fine collagen.

e. Types
-A.Loose connective (areolar)/adipose
Contains fibers that are loosely arranged around cells. Three types
i. Areolar- Beneath skin and most epithelial layers; between
muscles. Made up of collagen and elastin. fibers in a gel-like
intercellular matrix. It protects, provides cushion, acts like "tissue