In biology, tissue refers to a group of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function. Tissues are the building blocks of organs and are organized into four main types in animals, including humans:
1. Epithelial Tissue : Covers body surfaces, lines cavities, and forms glands. It serves as a protective barrier and is involved in absorption, secretion, and sensation.
2. Connective Tissue : Supports and connects other tissues. It includes bone, cartilage, fat, blood, and lymph. Connective tissue provides structural support, stores energy, and transports substances.
3. Muscle Tissue : Responsible for movement. It is divided into three types:
- Skeletal muscle (voluntary movement)
- Cardiac muscle (heart contractions)
- Smooth muscle (involuntary movements, such as in the digestive tract).
4. Nervous Tissue : Comprises neurons and supporting cells (glia). It transmits electrical impulses and processes information in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
In plants, tissues are categorized into:
Meristematic Tissue : Responsible for growth and development.
Permanent Tissue : Includes simple tissues (parenchyma, collenchyma, sclerenchyma) and complex tissues (xylem and phloem), which perform functions like photosynthesis, support, and transport.
Tissues are fundamental to the structure and function of multicellular organisms.