TISSUES

Quick Review of Chapter 6 Tissues

 Living organisms in this world comprise cells.
 There are unicellular as well as multicellular organisms present in this world.
 In unicellular organisms, the single cell is capable of performing several
functions such as respiration, digestion and clearing of the cell.
 In multicellular organisms, there is a division of labour. There are different
types as well as groups of cells that perform different functions in a
multicellular organism.
 For Example, In animals muscle cells are responsible for causing movement,
nerve cells are responsible for carrying messages and signals from one part of
the body to another and blood is responsible for the transportation of food and
oxygen to different parts of the body.
 In plants, there are vascular tissues that are responsible for carrying food and
water to two different parts of a plant.

Notes
 The cells form groups of cells to perform a single task.
 This grouping of cells together to perform a function efficiently is called
a Tissue.
 For Example, Muscles and Blood.
 The tissue cells have the same structure and they perform the same function.
Tissues of Plants and Animals

Plant Tissues Animal Tissues

Plants do not move so their tissues are Animals need more energy as
predominantly the ones that provide compared to plants because they are
support to them so that they can stand not stationary. Their tissues are the
erect. ones that can support the movement.
These tissues are made up of dead cells The tissues in the case of animals are
because dead cells can also provide made up of living cells so that they
mechanical strength to the plants and do can move and perform several
not require much maintenance. functions.
Only certain parts of the plant can grow. Cells in animals grow uniform early
The tissues present in such regions divide and not only in certain regions of the
themselves and form new tissues. body.
The structure of plant tissues is not very The organs and organ systems in
specialised as compared to animals animals are highly developed.
Plant Tissues

Figure 1: Types of Plant Tissues

Meristematic Tissue
 Only certain parts of a plant tend to grow. The tissues located in such parts
are called meristematic tissues.
 They can divide themselves and form new tissues.
 They have a thin cell wall made of cellulose.
 They have a dense nucleus and cytoplasm but lack vacuoles.
 They can further be classified differently based on the areas of the plants
where they are located -
o Apical
o Lateral
o Intercalary

Figure 2: Location of meristematic tissue

Apical Meristem Lateral Meristem Intercalary Meristem

They are responsible They are responsible for These tissues are present
for the growth of increasing the circumference of at internodes of stem
stems and roots in the middle part of the stem and regions between the places
the plants hence are found there. at which leaves attach.
They are found on
the tips of the roots
and stems.

Why are there no vacuoles in the intercalary meristem?

 Vacuoles are responsible for the storage of food in the water. The intercalary
tissues do not store them. They are rather responsible for manufacturing
them.
 Moreover, vacuoles contain sap which provides rigidity to a cell. This property
of vacuoles may not allow the intercalary tissues to divide and manufacture
new cells. Hence vacuoles are not present in them.
Permanent Tissue
 The cells that are formed by the meristematic tissues often have to take a
certain role in the plant and thus, they lose their ability to divide and form
more cells. They then become the permanent tissues of the plants.
 Differentiation - The process by which cells of the meristematic tissues convert
themselves into permanent tissue by taking a fixed shape, size and function is
called differentiation.
 Types of Permanent Tissues:
o Simple Permanent Tissues
o Complex Permanent Tissues
 Simple Permanent Tissues are of five types:
o Parenchyma
o Chlorenchyma
o Aerenchyma
o Collenchyma
o Sclerenchyma

Figure 3: Simple Permanent Tissue

Parenchyma Collenchyma Sclerenchyma
These tissues are responsible These tissues are These tissues are
for photosynthesis, storage of responsible for providing responsible for making
food, gaseous exchange and flexibility to the plants so plants hard and rigid.
floating of plants. that they can bend easily.
They are a group of living cells They are a group of living They are made up of
with a cell wall made of cells with a cell wall made dead cells having a cell
cellulose. of cellulose and pectin. wall made of lignin.
The parenchyma cells have They have a little The cells do not have
large intercellular spaces intercellular space in any intercellular
between them. between them. spaces.
There are thin walls that The cells present in these The cells have a long
surround each cell. tissues are broad and structure with thick
irregularly thick at walls.
corners.
They are found in leaves and They are present in the They are found in
newly formed branches. leaves and stems of a stems, veins of the
plant. leaves and coverings of
nuts and seeds.

Chlorenchyma
 These tissues are similar to that of parenchyma but they also contain
chlorophyll in them.
 Due to the presence of chlorophyll, they are capable of performing the process
of photosynthesis in plants.
Aerenchyma
 They are found in aquatic plants.
 They are also similar in structure to that of the parenchyma but they have
large air cavities in them.
 These cavities allow the aquatic plants to float in water.
What is Lignin?

The cell walls of dead cells have a substance called lignin in them which provides
rigidity to the cells. Lignin acts as the cement for the cells.

Epidermis

 The outermost layer of the cell is known as the Epidermis.

 It covers the entire plant.
  It is a thin layer of single cells but in places with less water, the epidermis of
the plants can become thick in order to avoid frequent water loss.
 The cells are flat and they have no intercellular spaces between them.
 The outer walls of the epidermal cells are thick and the inner walls are thin.
 The epidermal cells often have long hair-like structures in roots which
facilitate the absorption of water.
 The main function of the epidermis is to protect the plants from fungi, water
loss and any injuries by secreting a wax-like water-resistant substance called
a Cuticle on the surface of the plants which protects the plants.

Figure 4: Epidermis
Stomata
 Stomata are pore-like structures that are present in the epidermis of the
leaves.
 These pores are enclosed by two cells that have a similar shape as a kidney.
These are called Guard Cells of Stomata. Guard cells are modified epidermal
cells.
 Guard cells are responsible for the exchange of gases and transpiration.
Transpiration (OLYMPIAD)
 Figure 5: Transpiration
The plant cells sometimes have extra they lose it in the form of water that
evaporates through stomata. This process is called Transpiration.

Role of Transpiration in Plants – (OLYMPIAD)

 Exchange of Gases - Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through
transpiration.
 Prevent the Plants from Overheating - The leaves absorb sunlight during the
process of photosynthesis. Some of it is used in the photosynthesis process
while the rest is radiated as Heat Energy. We know that absorption of water
causes cooling of the surrounding area. Therefore transpiration keeps the
leaves cool.
 Transportation of Food and Water in Plants - The roots of the plants absorb
minerals and water present in the soil through transpiration and they are then
distributed in the plant through the transpiration stream.
 Movement of Water in Plants – As plants lose water in the form of water
vapours, the density of water in leaves becomes low. So the water from the
higher density areas such as the roots move up to lower density areas through
a force called Transpirational Pull.
Which gas is necessary for the process of photosynthesis?

Carbon dioxide gas is necessary for the process of photosynthesis. Plants use
carbon dioxide along with water and sunlight to produce glucose in the process of
photosynthesis. Plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen as a byproduct
of the photosynthesis process.

Why do plants in desert areas have a waxy coating of cutting over them?
(OLYMPIAD)
The epidermis cells of plants that are found in deserts have a waxy coating of
cutting over them because it prevents water loss from the surface of plants since
water is already scarce in such areas.

Why are the branches of old trees different from the stems of a new plant?
 As a plant grows older the meristematic cells start covering the upper layer of
the plants instead of the epidermis.
 These are the dead cells that have no special function in the plants but to
provide rigidity. They make the branches of the plants thick.
 This is often called the Bark or the thick cork of the tree.
 The bark of the trees contains a substance called Suberin which makes it
waterproof and does not allow gaseous exchanges. (OLYMPIAD)
Complex Permanent Tissues

Complex Permanent Tissues comprise different kinds of cells. These different

types of cells coordinate with each other and perform a common function in these
tissues. Two Complex Permanent Tissues are - Xylem and Phloem.

Similarities between Xylem and Phloem

 Their main function is to carry food and water in the plant.
 Both have a vascular bundle which is a conductive tissue in plants that helps
them survive in different environmental conditions.
Xylem
Xylem is made up of dead cells having a thick cell lining. It consists of the
following elements-
 Tracheids and Vessels – They have a broad tubular structure so that we can
allow transportation of food and water in the plants vertically.
  Xylem Parenchyma – It stores food and helps in the transportation of water
horizontally in the plants.
 Xylem Fibres – They support transportation
Phloem
Phloem is made up of living cells and it allows the movement of food from leaves
to other parts of the plant. It has the following elements –

Sieve Tubes – Broad shaped cells with porous walls

 Companion Cells – They facilitate the functions of the sieve tubes
 Phloem Fibres – Provide flexibility to the phloem
 Phloem Parenchyma – Stores starch and proteins
Characteristic Xylem Phloem
Made of Dead Cells Living Cells
Cell wall Thick Thin
thickness
Cell wall Lignin (rigid) Celluloses
material
Permeability Impermeable Permeable
Cytoplasm None Cytoplasm lining
Transports… Water & Food
minerals
Carried to…. Leaves Growing parts & storage
organs
Direction of flow Upwards Up & down
Tissue also has Fibres Companion cells
…

Animal Tissue
 Figure 7: Types of Animal Tissues
1. Epithelial Tissue

 They are the protective tissues of the human body. They cover many organs
and cavities that are present inside the body.
 Where are the epithelial tissues found in the human body?
o The lining of the blood vessels
o The lining of the mouth
o Kidney tubules
o Skin
o Lung alveoli
 Structure and functions of the epithelial tissues -
o The main function of the epithelial tissues is to act as a barrier and
separate different organs and systems from each other.
o There is no space between the cells of epithelial tissues
o The cells are permeable. This makes it possible for them to
exchange materials between different parts of the body and also
between the body and the external environment.
o The epithelial tissues remain separated from the tissues beneath
them because of a thin membrane over them.
 Figure 8: Types of Epithelium
Different Simple Stratified Columnar Ciliated Cuboidal Glandular
types of Squamous Squamous Columnar
epithelium
tissues
Structure They have The They are Columnar They are These are
delicate cell epithelium the epithelial cube- special
lining and Squamous column- tissues shaped cells gland cells
possess a cells are like shape which have which are that can
flat thin arranged in tissues Cilia involved in secrete
structure several present on absorption substances
layers them and
secretion.
Found in Alveoli and Skin Intestine Respiratory Kidney Sweat
bowman’s system tubules glands in
capsule- the skin
nephron in
the kidney

2. Connective Tissues
 Structure and function of connective tissues
o They are loosely bound cells present in an intercellular Matrix.
o This matrix can be of different types – Dense, Rigid, Fluid or Jelly-
like.
o Depending upon the functionality of the connective tissue, the
nature of the matrix varies.
 Examples of Connective Tissues
 Figure 9: Connective Tissues
Blood
 The main function of blood is to transport gases, food, waste materials
and hormones in the body.

 Therefore, blood has a fluid Matrix present in it which is called Plasma.

 The plasma contains red blood cells, white blood cells and blood
platelets.

 The RBC has haemoglobin pigment which carries oxygen to tissues.

 White blood cells fight diseases and platelets are involved in the clotting
of blood when injured.

 The plasma also contains proteins and hormones in it.

Lymph (OLYMPIAD)

Lymph is a colourless fluid that carries white blood cells throughout the human
body in lymphatic vessels. There are lymphoid organs present in the body that
produce lymph and together form the lymphatic system. Some of them are lymph
nodes and tonsils.
 Figure 10: Lymph Capillaries
Lymph is similar to blood except for a few differences:
 It contains only white blood cells.
 It contains less amount of blood proteins, calcium and phosphorus but more
glucose.
 It flows in one direction only.
 Lymph moves in the body through its normal function, unlike blood which is
pumped by the heart.
Constituents of Lymph:
Lymph Plasma – Lymph Plasma carries infection-fighting proteins along with other
substances such as water, calcium and phosphorus.

Lymph Corpuscles – Lymph Corpuscles comprises white blood cells. Red blood
cells and platelets are not present in lymph.

Functions of Lymph:
 It carries oxygen and minerals to the cells in the body and carries back carbon
dioxide and waste materials back into the blood.
 It keeps the body cells moist.
 It maintains the volume of the blood.
 It helps in eliminating harmful bacteria and viruses from the body and hence is
responsible for the immunity of human beings.
 It absorbs fats from the intestine and transports them throughout the body.
Bones
 Bones form a framework of the body over which the muscles are wrapped
together.
 The bone tissue is strong and inflexible.
 Therefore, the bone cells are present in a rigid matrix that is formed from
calcium and phosphorus.
Haversian Canals (OLYMPIAD)
 Figure 11 Haversian Canal
 The bones comprise microscopic tubes called Haversian Canals.
 They are contained in osteons, rough cylindrical structures present along the
axis of the bone.
 They allow the blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerve fibres to travel
through them.
 These canals have concentric channels called Lamellae around them.
 The Haversian canals communicate with bone cells through connections
called Canaliculi.
Cartilage
 Cartilage is present over the joints of the bones and provides them with a
smooth structure.
 For Example in the nose tip and ear pinna, trachea, larynx.
 They contain a solid matrix made of protein and sugar. They have a
homogenous matrix.
 It provides support and flexibility to various parts of our body.
Ligaments
 A ligament connects two bones together.
 It has an elasticity that facilitates the connection.
 The cells of ligaments have a little matrix.
Tendons
 The tendon tissues are responsible for connecting bones and muscles
together.
 They have limited flexibility but very great strength.
Areolar
 This tissue acts as a filter in between the spaces present inside the organs of
the body.
 It helps in repairing other tissues as well.
 It is found in the skin and bone marrow.
Components of the Areolar Connective Tissue

Figure 12 Components of the areolar connective tissue

1. Cells (OLYMPIAD)
 Fat Cells (Adipocytes) – They are responsible for the secretion of lipids.
 Fibroblasts – They are present in the highest amount in areolar tissues. They
are responsible for the secretion of fibres.
 Mast Cells – They release histamine that plays a role in allergic reactions
 Macrophages – They eat any germs or infectious cells in the body
 Plasma Cells – They produce antibodies
2. Fibres
 Collagen Fibres – They provide tensile strength to the tissue
 Elastin Fibres – They provide elasticity to the tissue
 Ground Substance – It is a fluid matrix that holds cells and fibres of the tissue
Adipose
 Fats are stored in our body in the adipose tissues.
 They are found below the skin and between the organs of the body.
  Provides cushioning to the organs.
3. Muscular Tissue
 It is made up of muscle fibres which are long cells.
 It allows movements in our bodies.
 How can muscles cause movement?
They contain special proteins called Contractile Proteins. These proteins cause
contraction and relaxation of the muscles.
 There are two kinds of muscles found in our body - Voluntary Muscles and
Involuntary Muscles.

Figure 13: Muscular Tissue

Striated/ Skeletal/ Voluntary muscles Smooth/ Unstriated/Involuntary muscles
We can move them according to our own We cannot start or stop the movement
will of involuntary muscles.
They are also called Skeletal Muscles as They are also called Smooth Muscles.
they are attached to the bones.
They are also called Striated They are also called Unstriated
Muscles because of the presence of dark Muscles because they do not have any
and light bands over them light or dark bands on them.
The cells of voluntary muscles have more The cells of the involuntary muscles are
than one nucleus, do not have any long and have pointed ends.
branches, and have a long cylindrical
structure.
For Example, Muscles of our hands and For Example, The muscles in the
legs. alimentary canal and the Iris of our
 eyes.

 Cardiac Muscles
o These are special kinds of involuntary muscles.
o The muscles of the heart are called Cardiac Muscles. They perform
rhythmic contraction and relaxation throughout our life.
o They are cylindrical in shape, they have branches and there is a
single nucleus.
o Cardiac muscle consists of individual heart muscle cells connected
by intercalated discs to work as a single functional organ
4. The Nervous Tissue
 How do we react to stimuli?
o This is because of the nervous tissues present in our body. They are
capable of transmitting information quickly from the brain to
different parts of the body and vice-versa.
 Therefore nervous tissues are found in nerves, brain, and spinal cord.
 Nervous tissue is made up of cells called the Nerve Cells or Neurons.
 These neurons connect together to form the nerves of our body.
 Structure of a Neuron
o It is an elongated cell with a Cell Body that consists of some branch-
like structure called Dendrites.
o There is a Nucleus present in the centre of the cell body.
o The Nerve Endings of the cell are connected with the cell body via
Axon.
o A nerve cell can be up to 1 m long.

Figure 14: Structure of Neuron

The Structure of Neuron
1. Dendrites
 They are tree-like extensions (highly-branched) at the beginning of a neuron.
 They increase the surface area of the neuron.
 They receive chemical signals from different neurons of the body.
  They then convert these chemical signals into electrical signals and pass them
to the neuron cell body.
 A neuron can have a single dendrite or multiple dendrites
2. Cell Body
 Also called Soma.
 The main function of the cell body and nucleus of the neuron is to maintain
the functionality of the cell.
 It does not play an active role in the transmission of the signal.
 It produces proteins that are required by different parts of the neuron to work
properly.
 It contains different cell organelles such as mitochondria, Golgi apparatus etc
that perform various functions of the cell.
3. Axon
 Neurons have one axon in general.
 It is a long structure that connects the cell body to the terminals and it also
connects with other neurons, cells and organs of the body through nerve
terminals.
 It allows for the fast transmission of signals. The larger the diameter of the
axon the faster it will transmit signals.
 It is covered with a special insulating substance called myelin. It helps in the
rapid transmission of signals.
4. Schwann Cells (OLYMPIAD)
 The Myelin sheath that covers the axon is produced by Schwann cells.
 The Myelin sheath keeps the signal intact.