ELASTIC TISSUE Meaning and
Definition
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Elastic tissue refers to a specialized type of connective tissue in the body that is characterized by its ability to stretch and recoil. It is primarily composed of elastic fibers, which are made up of the protein elastin.
Elastic tissue can be found in various parts of the body, particularly those requiring flexibility and resilience. This tissue is abundant in organs that experience repeated stretching and contracting, such as the skin, blood vessels, lungs, and vocal cords.
The unique properties of elastic tissue allow it to stretch in response to applied force and then promptly return to its original shape once the force is released. This elasticity is essential for maintaining the structure, function, and integrity of the tissues and organs. For example, in blood vessels, elastic tissue enables them to expand and accommodate increased blood flow, while also providing the necessary recoil to maintain optimal blood pressure.
As individuals age or due to certain medical conditions, the amount and quality of elastic tissue can decrease, leading to a loss of elasticity and increased stiffness. This can result in various health issues, such as decreased flexibility in the skin, arterial stiffness, and respiratory problems.
Overall, elastic tissue plays a crucial role in providing resilience and flexibility to the body, allowing it to adapt to various physical stresses and maintain proper physiological functioning.
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A form of connective t. in which the elastic fibers predominate; it constitutes the ligamenta subflava of the vertebrae and the ligamentum nuchae, especially of quadrupeds; it occurs also in the walls of the arteries and of the air-tubes and connects the cartilages of the larynx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ELASTIC TISSUE
- wlastic tissue
- slastic tissue
- dlastic tissue
- rlastic tissue
- 4lastic tissue
- 3lastic tissue
- ekastic tissue
- epastic tissue
- eoastic tissue
- elzstic tissue
- elsstic tissue
- elwstic tissue
- elqstic tissue
- elaatic tissue
- elaztic tissue
- elaxtic tissue
- eladtic tissue
- elaetic tissue
- elawtic tissue
Etymology of ELASTIC TISSUE
The word "elastic" originates from the Latin word "elasticus", which itself came from the Greek word "elastikos", meaning "propulsive" or "flexible". The term "tissue" has a Latin origin, stemming from the word "tessera", meaning "a small piece" or "cube". Therefore, when combined, "elastic tissue" refers to a collection of cells or fibers that possess flexibility and resilience.
Similar spelling words for ELASTIC TISSUE
