Group No.

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Group Members:
Buniel, Catindig, De Jesus, Cabilatazan, Cagunot, Caliboso, Dairo

Animal Tissues

Learning Objectives
Building on the learning objectives from your lab syllabus, you will be expected to:
1. List the four major types of animal tissues and describe the structural characteristics and function(s) of
each.
2. Identify slides of various types of epithelium, connective, muscle and nervous tissues.
3. Provide examples of where each tissue type is located within the body.
4. Relate the structure of individual tissue types to their function.

Introduction
Animals are composed of specific tissues, which are groups of cells similar in structure that perform a
common function. Groups of two or more tissue types form organs, and two or more organs form organ
systems. For example, nervous tissue is composed of cells called neurons that receive and conduct electrical
signals. Nervous tissue, along with other tissue types, forms the brain, spinal cord and nerves (organs),
which collectively make up the nervous system (organ system).

In this lab, we will focus on the tissue level of organization. There are four types of tissues found in animals:
epithelial tissue, connective tissue, muscle tissue, and nervous tissue. You will learn the major
characteristics and locations of each tissue and examine various types of each tissue under the microscope.

There are a few important things to keep in mind during your studies:
 As with all levels of organization, the structure of the tissue is related to its function. As you examine
each tissue under the microscope, think about how the appearance of the tissue relates to the
function it performs.
 Most of the slides you will see today contain more than one tissue type. Pay attention to the
descriptions and figures provided in the handout to make sure you’re looking at the correct tissue.
 Make sure you examine each tissue at all magnifications (4x, 10x, 40x objectives). Certain tissues will
be best seen at lower magnifications while others (including specific cell types) are best viewed at
higher magnifications. Any magnification may be used on the lab practical.
 You are strongly encouraged to draw each tissue, and space is provided in the handout for this purpose.

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Activity 1: Epithelial Tissue
Epithelial tissues line body surfaces and cavities, as well as form glands. The cells of the tissue are closely
connected to each other via cellular junctions and because epithelium is found on the edges of organs, it
has two distinct surfaces. The apical surface is exposed to the body cavity or exterior, while the basal
surface is adjacent to the underlying tissue (see the Figure below). Epithelia contain no blood vessels (they
are non- vascular) and are dependent upon the underlying connective tissue for nutrients.

Epithelial cells can be one of three shapes: squamous (flattened), cuboidal, or columnar. Note the cell
shapes as well as the position & shape of the nucleus for each cell type in the Figure above. If the
epithelium consists of one cell layer it is called simple epithelium. Stratified epithelium has more than one
layer. The combination of cell shape and the number of cell layers is used to classify epithelial tissue. (i.e.
simple columnar epithelium would consist of a single layer of column shaped cells). Cell shape in stratified
epithelium can vary, but the shape of the cells at the apical surface determines the name.

Epithelial tissues generally function in protection, absorption and secretion, but the function varies
depending on its location. As you explore the types of epithelial tissues below, think about how the
structure of each tissue fits its function.

**Hint: Many of the slides you will examine contain other types of tissue in additional to epithelium. Keep in
mind that epithelial tissues line either the outer or inner surfaces of organs and will thus typically be found
on the edge of the tissue.
Simple squamous epithelium

Artery, vein, and nerve slide: Simple squamous epithelium comprises the inner lining of blood vessels
(arteries, capillaries and veins), where it provides a smooth surface that reduces friction as blood travels
through the vessels. In capillaries, gases and nutrients diffuse between the blood and tissues across this thin
barrier. The blood vessel slide shows a cross section of an artery and a vein. The wavy lining of the vessel
lumen (interior) is simple squamous epithelium.

Lung slide: The walls of lung air sacs (alveoli) are also composed of simple squamous epithelium. Air sacs
are the location of gas exchange between the air and blood.

How does the structure of simple squamous epithelium allow for efficient exchange o gases and solutes
across the capillaries and lungs?

 Skin and esophagus slides are both made up of stratified squamous epithelium and also are similar in
terms of protection from abrasion as their main function. However, they differ in location - skin can be
superficial while the other is located in the esophagus area. Also, skin has high level of keratin,
specialized for protection and water loss while the stratified squamous epithelia found in esophagus are
non-keratinized that contributes to secretion of mucus which functions as protection and lubrication.

 The simple squamous epithelium is very thin which helps increase the rate of gaseous exchange. It also
facilitates the oxygen diffusion while forming a barrier between the air and bodily fluids.

 Simple squamous tissue is good for the passage of materials via diffusion and it forms the tiny air sacs of
the lungs and the walls of capillaries. It also forms the smooth, friction-reducing interior lining of the
blood vessels (arteries, capillaries and veins).
Simple cuboidal epithelium
Simple cuboidal epithelium (Kidney) slide : The tubules of the kidney are composed of a single layer of
cuboidal cells. The kidney slide shows cross sections of many tubules, all of which are lined with simple
cuboidal epithelium. These cells are active in absorption and secretion of various substances from or into
the kidney filtrate (which ultimately becomes urine). Note the shape of the epithelial cells and the centrally
located nuclei.

Simple columnar epithelium

Duodenum/Small intestine slide : The intestinal lining is a simple columnar epithelium. The primary function
of these cells is absorption of nutrients. As you examine the slide, note the large, oval shaped nuclei that are
positioned near the basal edge of the cells. Also note the large, clear goblet cells that are interspersed in the
epithelial layer. These are glandular cells that secrete mucus that helps protect the underlying tissues.
 Stratified squamous epithelium
Esophagus/stomach slide: Stratified squamous epithelium consists of multiple layers, with squamous cells
at the apical surface. The primary function of this type of epithelium is protection. Areas subject to abrasion,
like the mouth, esophagus, and skin, have stratified epithelium. Cells at the apical surface can be scraped
away (for instance, by food particles traveling down the esophagus), but the layered nature of the
epithelium ensures that the underlying tissues are protected. Note the thick layer of epithelium on the
esophagus slide. (*This slide also contains stomach tissue, which has a simple columnar epithelium)

Keratinized stratified squamous epithelium

Palmar Skin (Human skin corpuscle) slide : The epidermis (most superficial layer) of the skin is composed of
stratified squamous epithelial cells that contain large quantities of the protein keratin. Keratin is a tough
fibrous protein that offers protection from abrasion and water loss. New cells are produced at the basal
surface of the epithelium and are gradually pushed towards the apical surface. As they move upwards, they
become filled with keratin and eventually die, forming a layer of dead, keratin filled cells on the apical
surface of the epidermis. Examine the palmer skin slide, noting the entire epidermis and the layer of dead
cells at the apical surface. The dermis, which lies deep to the epidermis, is composed of connective tissue.

Compare the skin and esophagus slides. How are they similar? How are they different?
Connective tissues can be grouped into four categories based on their extracellular matrix: loose, dense,
supporting and fluid connective tissues. Both skin (epidermis) and esophagus are made up of stratified squamous
epithelial cells. Both also have the function of protection, especially the apical surfaces. On the epidermis, new
cells are formed at the basal structure, and then slowly rise to the apical, at the same time, being keratinized,
which in turn kills the cell. On the esophagus, the apical cells can be scraped and be removed freely, as opposed
to the dead cells of the epidermis, while protecting also a layer of squamous cells underneath.
Activity 2: Connective Tissue
Connective tissues vary widely in their form and function, but they are all characterized by the presence of
extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix is nonliving material composed of protein fibers and ground
substance. The protein fibers are composed of collagen (which gives strength) or elastin (which gives
flexibility). The number and type of fibers differs between the various types of connective tissue. The ground
substance fills the spaces between the cells and the fibers. It contains interstitial fluid (tissue fluid) and large
polysaccharide molecules. The consistency of the ground substance can vary from liquid to gel-like to a solid.

Connective tissues can be grouped into four categories based on their extracellular matrix: loose, dense,
supporting and fluid connective tissues. Using your textbook (6 th edition, pg 822), fill in the table below with
a short

Loose connective tissue

Areolar tissue slide: Areolar tissue is widely distributed throughout the body. It is located underneath (at
the basal surface) of all epithelial tissues, and forms a soft cushioning around organs. Collagen and elastin
fibers are visible and widely dispersed within the matrix, with fibroblasts (the cells that secrete the matrix)
scattered amid the fibers. In addition to supporting epithelia and cushioning organs, areolar tissue contains
immune cells that help fight infection and regulate inflammation.

Adipose tissue slide: Adipose tissue consists of adipocytes, or fat storage cells. It functions in energy
storage, insulation, and cushioning. Small pockets of adipose tissue can be found all over the body, but
accumulates under the skin (subcutaneous fat) and around certain organs, such as the kidneys. Unlike other
connective tissues, it has very little matrix and the cells are closely packed together. Each cell contains a
large fat droplet, which pushes the nucleus to the side. Note the clear cytoplasm and the peripherally
located nuclei of the fat cells in the slide.
Dense connective tissue
Palmar Skin (Human skin corpuscle) slide : The layer of skin that lies deep to the epidermis is called the
dermis and is composed of dense connective tissue. This tissue contains densely packed bundles of
irregularly arranged collagen fibers. It is found in areas of the body that are subject to tension from many
different directions. Note the thick layer of dense connective tissue that lies deep to the epithelium on the
skin slide. Nuclei of the connective tissue cells are scattered throughout the collagen
fibers.

Supporting connective tissue

Hyaline cartilage slide: Hyaline cartilage is the most abundant type of cartilage in the body and is found in
the rib cage, the nose, the trachea, and the ends of long bones. It provides structural support (but is more
flexible than bone) and has cushioning properties. Hyaline cartilage has a firm matrix with abundant
collagen fibers, but the individual fibers cannot be seen under the microscope. When viewed under the
microscope the matrix an amorphous quality (no discernable structures). The cells, which are known as
chondrocytes, reside in small cavities within the matrix called lacunae.
 Bone tissue slide: Bone tissue forms the skeletal
system. It functions in structural support, protection, and
mineral (calcium) storage. The extracellular matrix of
bone tissue contains abundant collagen fibers as well as
a hard, calcified ground substance. Mature bone cells,
called osteocytes, reside in cavities within the matrix
called lacunae. As bone tissue is formed, channels
remain in the hardened matrix that provide passageways
for blood vessels and nerves. The larger channels are
called central canals (Haversian canals). Bone tissue
forms in rings
(lamellae) around these canals, creating a structure called an osteon. Examine the bone tissue slide, noting
the osteons with their lamellae and bulls-eye like central canals. The lacunae, which contain the bone cells,
are visible as small dark patches in the lamellae.

Fluid connective tissue

Blood slide: Blood consists of several cell types suspended in a liquid matrix (plasma). The most numerous
cells are the erythrocytes (red blood cells), which transport oxygen. In mammals, these cells lack a nucleus
and have a biconcave shape that increases their surface area/volume ratio for more efficient transport.
Various types of leukocytes (white blood cells) are also present. These cells are components of the immune
system, and function to protect the body against foreign invaders (bacteria, viruses, etc) as well as clean up
cell debris. A third type of solid component you may see on these slides are cellular fragments called
platelets, which function in blood clotting.
Activity 3: Muscle Tissue
Muscle tissue is specialized for contraction. The cells are elongated, and are also known as muscle fibers.
They contain the contractile proteins actin and myosin, which interact to shorten and elongate the cells.
There are three different types of muscle tissue: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth. Examine each type of tissue
using the muscle composite slide. (*The skeletal and smooth muscle are shown as part of organs, so they
are not the only tissue present).

Skeletal muscle (muscle composite slide)

Skeletal muscles are attached to bones, and contraction of these muscles generates body movements (limb
movement, jaw movement, breathing, etc.). They are categorized as voluntary muscle fibers because we can
consciously control their contractions. The skeletal muscle fibers are long and cylindrical, with multiple
peripherally located nuclei. The cells have striations, alternating light and dark bands that result from the
ordered arrangement of actin and myosin within the cell.
Cardiac muscle (muscle composite slide)
Cardiac muscle is present in the heart, and is categorized as involuntary (not under conscious control). Cells
are striated, but the striations are much less obvious than in skeletal muscle tissue. The cells are shorter
than skeletal muscle fibers, have a single nucleus and are often branched. Individual cells are connected via
gap junctions and desmosomes. These cellular connections are visible under the microscope as dark bands
called intercalated disks. These cellular communication junctions are necessary for the coordinated beating
of the heart.

Smooth muscle (muscle composite slide & artery/vein/nerve slide)

Smooth muscle tissue is found in the walls of hollow organs, such as the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels,
and the urinary bladder. Contractions of these muscles propel fluid or materials through the organs (i.e.
food through the GI tract, blood through blood vessels, urine pushed out of bladder). Like cardiac muscle,
it is categorized as involuntary.
Smooth muscle cells are not striated (hence the name “smooth” muscle); they have a single nucleus, and
have tapered ends. Examine the smooth muscle on the muscle composite slide as well as the blood vessel
slide. In blood vessels there is a layer of smooth muscle deep to the epithelial layer. It is thicker on the
artery than on the vein, but can be seen in both.

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Activity 4: Nervous Tissue
Nervous tissue is specialized for communication and composes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral
nerves. The tissue consists of two major cell types: neurons and glial cells. Neurons communicate with each
other via electrical and chemical signals. They have nucleated cell bodies and two types of elongated cellular
processes: dendrites – which receive signals, and axons – which send signals.

Glial cells are the support cells of nervous tissue. There are several different types with various functions,
including maintaining proper ion concentrations in the fluid surrounding neurons, generating myelin (an
insulating material that surrounds some axons), and cleaning up debris.

Examine the slide of nervous tissue (giant multipolar neuron slide). Note the large neurons with their
elongated cellular processes and the smaller, more numerous glial cells.

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Activity 5: Identify the type of tissues (Epithelial, Connective, Nervous and Muscle) and its sub types
. Use the Dichotomous Key Provided

1. Nervous Tissue - Neuron 2. Muscular Tissue - Smooth Muscle

3. Muscular Tissue - Skeletal Muscle 4. Connective Tissue - Hyaline Cartilage

5. Connective Tissue - Blood 6. Epithelial Tissue - Simple Epithelium

7. Epithelial Tissue - Stratified Epithelium 8. Epithelial Tissue - Simple Cuboid Epithelium

9. Connective Tissue - Areolar 10. Dense Regular - Connective Tissue

11. Epithelial Tissue - Simple Columnar 12. Epithelial Tissue - Ciliated Pseudostratified
Epithelium Epithelium (columnar)

13. Epithelial Tissue - Transitional Epithelium 14. Connective Tissue - Bone/osseous tissue

15. Connective Tissue - Adipose 16. Muscular TCardiac Muscle

Activity 6: Organs
As explained in the introduction, organs are composed of two or more tissue types. You have examined
several organs in the tissue slides you’ve been viewing, including the skin, intestine, and blood vessels.
Review each of these slides again, and try to identify the different types of tissues that comprise the whole
organ. Label the specific tissue types on the pictures shown below.

Palmer skin
Epithelial Tissue -
Simple Savamous Epithelium

Connective Tissue -
Dense irregular Connective Tissue

Connective Tissue -
Adipose Tissue

Intestine

Epithelium Tissue –
Single Columnar Epithelium

Connective Tissue –
Dense Irregular Connective Tissue

Muscle Tissue –
Smooth Muscle Tissue

Artery

Epithelial Tissue -
Simple Squamous Epithelium

Muscle Tissue -
Smooth Muscle Tissue

Connective Tissue –
Dense Irregular Connective Tissue